French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mauritius on 20 November to kick off a five-day African tour, highlighting the island’s central role in France’s Indian Ocean ambitions. During his visit, Macron and Mauritian leaders agreed to deepen cooperation across several strategic areas, including maritime security, sustainable water management, and clean energy.
France and Mauritius signed a déclaration d’intention on the “blue economy,” covering joint work in marine biology, biotechnology, satellite monitoring, illegal fishing prevention, and aquaculture. A separate partnership will mobilise the French Development Agency (AFD) and EDF to modernise the Mauritian power grid, integrate renewables like solar and biomass, and develop smart-grid infrastructure.
Water management is also on the agenda: Paris is lending support, backed by a European Union grant, to improve water infrastructure, strengthen governance, and expand climate resilience. Macron and Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam also confirmed support for a long-term education initiative, establishing a bilingual path in schools and closer academic exchanges.
Macron’s stop in Mauritius also has strong geopolitical overtones. Analysts say France is reasserting its role in the Indo-Pacific by strengthening ties with Mauritius, a key island in the region. His visit comes amid mounting competition from India, China, and other global powers. France’s support for maritime surveillance and ocean governance signals its intent to remain deeply engaged in the Indian Ocean.
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