Emmanuel Macron's Visit: Between Symbolism and Economic Realities

Emmanuel Macron's presence in our territory highlights the significance of Mauritius for a powerful economic and military nation like France. It also underscores the strong ties between two historical trade partners, essential pillars for new levels of multisectoral development.

On his way to the G20 summit taking place next weekend in South Africa, French President Emmanuel Macron will be in Mauritius from November 20 to 21. This official visit will feature high-level meetings, the signing of agreements in key sectors, and events aimed at uncovering mutual opportunities for businesses in both countries.

The visit emphasizes the solid relations between France, a global economic power, and Mauritius, a strategic partner located about 9,200 kilometers from Paris. France remains a key supplier, with imports amounting to Rs 18.6 billion, while being a significant buyer of 'Made in Mauritius' products worth Rs 7.53 billion in 2024. One in four tourists visiting Mauritius is French, and in the first half of the year, French direct investment reached Rs 5.7 billion, accounting for 37% of total foreign direct investment.

"This historic visit by the French President to Mauritius also opens up new opportunities for a renewed and strengthened partnership to support Mauritius in its economic transition amid numerous challenges: climatic, environmental, energy-related, technological, and demographic, among others," stated the Economic Development Board in a press release.

Moreover, they added: "Our common goal is to solidify this economic partnership with a long-term perspective, placing innovation, digital transition, and sustainability at the heart of our priorities. Together, France and Mauritius are destined to build an exemplary economic relationship based on performance, trust, and shared prosperity."

Macron's visit will highlight the role of the French Development Agency (AFD) as a funding source for nationally significant projects: water and energy. According to the AFD, the objective is clear: to assist Mauritius in modernizing its infrastructure, enhancing resilience to climate hazards, and ensuring sustainable management of its essential networks.

"Five cooperation agreements will be signed between France, via the AFD, and the Mauritian government, reflecting the strength of the bilateral partnership. These agreements aim to accelerate the country’s energy transition and support the transformation of the water sector, two strategic priorities for the Mauritian government," stated the AFD in a press release. "In this context, EDF Réunion will be mobilized starting in December to enhance the security of the Mauritian electric grid and anticipate risks related to extreme climatic events increasingly affecting the island."

In the energy sector, the AFD will provide support of 700,000 euros (Rs 36.4 million) to the Central Electricity Board. Furthermore, there are plans for a 40 million euro loan from the agency, alongside a 10 million euro grant from the European Union.

It is noteworthy that alongside the official visit, a France-Mauritius business and investment meeting will take place on November 20 and 21 at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port-Louis, organized by the EDB, Business Mauritius, and MEDEF International. According to the EDB, these meetings will follow the France-Mauritius Business Forum held on April 25 in Mauritius, which was a great success, bringing together nearly 200 Mauritian and French businesspeople.