Celebrating Europe Day 2026 in Mauritius

A highlight of the evening was the symbolic handover by the EU Ambassador of a photograph to the Prime Minister, Dr the Honourable Navin Ramgoolam. The photograph features Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the Prime Minister’s late father, alongside Jean Rey, President of the European Commission, in 1970. This was followed by the screening of a short archive video showing Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam during negotiations with the European Commission on Mauritius’ formal accession to the Yaoundé Convention in 1972. Both the photograph and the video sparked great emotions among guests.

In his address, Ambassador Benedikt stated that: 'Africa and the Indian Ocean are at the heart of EU action. We want a respectful and mutually beneficial partnership among equals. Since Mauritian independence, Europe has been on your side and contributed positively and decisively to your economic and social success. And our hand is stretched out, to continue to do so, also in these challenging time.'

Several Mauritian EU partners - including the Ministry of Fisheries, civil society organisations, universities, and private sector organisations - participated in an Expo showcasing the results achieved through EU cooperation across a range of sectors, including sustainable fisheries, trade, the protection of marine and terrestrial ecosystems, climate-smart agriculture, the protection and promotion of the rights of women and girls, persons with disabilities and former detainees, as well as mobility in higher education and research cooperation between Europe and Mauritius.

The reception received extensive media coverage and was also highlighted by the President of the Republic in a social media post.