Mauritius, UK Reaffirm Strategic Partnership, Pledge Joint Action on Climate Change
Mauritius and the United Kingdom have reiterated their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership, with a focus on maritime security, climate action, investment, and institutional reforms. This was announced at a reception held in Port Louis to welcome the new British High Commissioner, Mr. Paul Brummell.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, Mr. Dhananjay Ramful, extended a warm welcome to High Commissioner Brummell, highlighting the long-standing ties between the two countries. He emphasized that Mauritius and the UK share a common voice on key issues such as sovereignty, security, development, climate, and prosperity.
Minister Ramful underscored the importance of advancing collaboration in areas like coastal protection, attracting UK investments, and fostering resilient global ties to drive sustainable economic growth. He expressed gratitude for the UK’s steadfast partnership in combating climate change, citing its support in capacity building and financial assistance. The Minister also reiterated his commitment to working closely with the UK to implement the roadmap of opportunities outlined by both governments.
High Commissioner Brummell, in his remarks, recalled the historical and enduring ties between the UK and Mauritius, rooted in shared democratic values and Commonwealth membership. He highlighted the evolving partnership, adapting to the complex challenges of the 21st century, and cited the May agreement on the sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago as a testament to both countries’ respect for international law.
Looking ahead to COP30, High Commissioner Brummell stressed the importance of building ambitious, evidence-based Nationally Determined Contributions to limit global warming. He praised Mauritius’ leadership as a big ocean state and a regional beacon driving climate change mitigation, despite its vulnerability to the devastating impacts of climate change.
He lauded Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam’s investment targets for renewable energy, as outlined in the 2025-2026 budget, and reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting this achievement. The British High Commissioner announced that the UK is delighted to support two pioneering new policy products: Mauritius’ first Green Taxonomy and a Climate Risk Map, to facilitate strong decision-making on adaptation investment.
The event, themed ‘Building a Sustainable Future,’ was attended by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mrs. Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra, several Ministers and Junior Ministers, and members of the Diplomatic Corps. The reaffirmed commitment between Mauritius and the UK signals a continued commitment to multilateral cooperation and sustainable development.
