The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee said peace and stability throughout the region of the Indian Ocean is an objective that India and Mauritius both share. The two countries face the common challenge of maritime piracy that must be overcome by the collective efforts of all the littoral states that are affected. He was speaking at the banquet hosted in the honour of the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr. Rajkeswur Purryag on January 4, 2013.

The President said India and Mauritius share unique warmth and friendship built on the foundation of close bonds between peoples of two countries. The long-standing ties of co-operation between India and Mauritius have today evolved into a modern and vibrant partnership involving key sectors on both sides. The strong synergies and complementarities between our two economies indicate that there still remains vast untapped potential - especially in the trade, investment, developmental and infrastructure sectors. He said India's commitment to the progress and prosperity of Mauritius remains firm.

This release issued at 1000 hrs