End of Term: The American Ambassador Says Farewell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

The U.S. Ambassador to Mauritius and Seychelles, Henry V. Jardine, expressed his gratitude to the Mauritian government for its cooperation and support during his three-year term. He spoke after a farewell visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, Ritish Ramful, on Monday, January 5, in Port Louis. Ramful recalled the long-standing cordial relations between Mauritius and the United States, emphasizing that the bilateral ties have further strengthened in recent years, particularly regarding the Chagos Archipelago, following the signing of the treaty governing this territory. He also mentioned the ongoing close cooperation between the two countries in maritime security.

One of the key topics discussed with the ambassador was the upcoming 18th U.S.-Africa Business Summit scheduled for late July in Mauritius. The conference is expected to gather African and American business leaders, with around 3,000 delegates anticipated. Ramful described the event as a major and strategic project for Mauritius. Discussions also included the support Mauritius provides to the United States, reflecting the close and constructive partnership between the two nations.

For his part, the American ambassador reflected on his three years in office, calling it a rewarding experience. He highlighted key achievements, including the launch and ongoing construction of the new U.S. embassy in Mauritius, and noted significant progress made in strengthening bilateral cooperation in security, governance, and institutional initiatives. The ambassador also emphasized his country's commitment to economic initiatives, recalling the success of the 2024 business summit and expressing eagerness to participate in the upcoming U.S.-Africa Business Summit. He expressed optimism about the continued strengthening of relations between Mauritius and the United States in the coming year.