A new breath for cooperation

Scientific and technological cooperation is at the heart of the discussions between Mauritius and Australia. The President of the Republic, Dharam Gokhool, received this September 26 at the State House an Australian parliamentary delegation led by Milton Dick, President of the House of Representatives.

This meeting recalled the long-standing friendship between the two countries, officially established in 1970, but which goes back much further in history, with the travels of Abel Tasman in the XVIIᵉ century and the stay of Matthew Flinders in the XIXᵉ. President Gokhool stressed that these links are based on common values: democracy, peace and respect for human rights.

The discussions focused on several strategic areas. Trade and investment are at the top, with the desire to promote business flows in agri-food, services and innovation. The blue economy is another priority axis, through marine research, aquaculture and monitoring of maritime spaces.

Faced with climate change, the two countries have agreed to develop projects related to renewable energies and the reduction of carbon emissions. Education and research also occupy an important place, with the highlighting of Curtin Mauritius, the only Australian campus in Africa.

The cooperation also extends to digital technology, cybersecurity and environmental technologies. Tourism is not left behind, thanks to the prospects of better air connectivity. Finally, the issue of gender equality was addressed, with the desire to promote the presence of women in public authorities.

To realize these ambitions, Mauritius and Australia have decided to set up working groups, organize bilateral forums and launch new joint initiatives. “We envision an era of cooperation based on knowledge, sustainability and equity,” said Dharam Gokhool. Milton Dick, for his part, affirmed that “*this visit reflects Australia’s renewed commitment to strengthening its partnership with Mauritius for the good of our peoples *”.