The citizens of Mauritius today celebrated the 44th anniversary of their independence.
Mauritius is originally colonized by the Dutch in the 17th century. The country later came under French rule and then was captured by the British in 1810.
On 12h March 1968 it gained independence within the Commonwealth with Seewoosagur Ramgoolam as prime minister.
US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, speaking in Washington, DC, extended the congratulations of President Obama and the people of the United States, to the people of Mauritius on their National Day.
She stresses that Mauritian leaders have succeeded in the space of a single generation in creating one of Africa’s strongest and most developed economies.
Mauritius’ democratic traditions are matched only by economic successes, as it remain committed to those founding principles of democracy, Ms. Clinton added.
Both countries are working to confront some of the most challenging issues of the modern era, from fighting maritime piracy to promoting the ideals of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, and much more.
She says that together, businesses in the United States and Mauritius continue to forge increasing trade and investment links.
“The United States joins all citizens of Mauritius as you celebrate your independence and the inspiration Mauritius provides to countries throughout Africa and around the world. Know that the United States stands with you as a partner and dedicated friend as we work to create greater opportunities for all our people.
“ -Ms. Clinton
The United States and Mauritius signed an agreement September 18th 2006 that is intended to strengthen and expand trade ties between the two countries.
The agreement, called a trade and investment framework agreement (TIFA), will provide a formal mechanism to address bilateral trade issues and help enhance trade and investment relations.
Total trade between the United States and Mauritius was valued at $252.7 million in 2005. Significant Mauritian exports include textiles and apparel, sugar, processed diamonds, jewelry, eyewear, and canned and frozen fish.
Mauritius, a small Southern African island nation located in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar, is a well-established multiparty democracy that has a market-based economy with a strong and dynamic private sector.
