Mauritius Prime Minister Dr. Navin Ramgoolam departed for London on September 26, 2026, to engage in high-level discussions on recent developments related to the Chagos archipelago. The talks aim to strengthen bilateral relations and address ongoing issues between Mauritius and the United Kingdom. This trip follows a series of significant events, including a meeting between Dr. Ramgoolam and Lord David Neuberger, former President of the UK Supreme Court, in Port-Louis on September 25.
The Chagos issue remains a significant point of contention between Mauritius and the UK. Dr. Ramgoolam's discussions in London will focus on the latest developments and potential solutions. The Prime Minister's visit is seen as a crucial step in advancing Mauritius' claims to sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago. Separately, Xavier-Luc Duval, leader of the Parti Mauricien Socialiste Démocrate (PMSD), expressed reservations about the proposed creation of a National Crime Agency.
The Mauritian economy is showing signs of growth, with the tourism sector experiencing an increase in arrivals and revenue. According to Tourism Minister Richard Duval, efforts are being made to reach the target of 1.5 million tourists in 2026 and maintain this momentum in the coming years. Additionally, 31 enterprises were awarded the "Made in Moris" label under the "En route vers le Made in Moris" program, an initiative supported by the government and the Mauritius Commercial Bank.
In other news, the National Human Rights Commission of Mauritius has recommended a constitutional amendment to recognize linguistic rights. This recommendation is part of a position paper on linguistic rights submitted to the National Assembly. The Hindu Common Platform has also called for the introduction of the Bhojpuri language at the National Assembly.
The Queen Elizabeth College won the Omnicane Award 2026, which was officially announced during a ceremony on September 25 at Plaine Magnien. The event was attended by President Dharambeer Gokhool and several distinguished guests. The award recognizes the college's outstanding achievements.
At the United Nations, Mauritian Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful emphasized the need for a reform of the UN Security Council and called for an end to conflicts worldwide. He also advocated for the creation of a Palestinian state and encouraged the international community to address these pressing issues.
A significant seizure of synthetic drugs was made at Mauritius' airport, highlighting the ongoing issue of narcotics trafficking. The Forensic Science Laboratory confirmed the presence of dangerous substances in "gummies" (gelatinous candies) intercepted during a passenger screening. Authorities have issued an alert regarding these substances.
Key points
- Dr. Navin Ramgoolam's London visit aims to advance discussions on the Chagos archipelago.
- Mauritius' tourism sector reports increased arrivals and revenue.
- The National Human Rights Commission recommends a constitutional amendment for linguistic rights.
