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Germany and Mauritius: Bilateral relations

11.03.2024 - Article

Relations between Mauritius and Germany are friendly, and cooperation in international bodies is based on trust. The German ambassador in Antananarivo, Madagascar, is also accredited to Mauritius. In 2021, the foreign ministries of the two countries agreed on a mechanism for holding consultations; the first bilateral political consultations under this scheme were held in Berlin in November 2023.

Tourism is the most important aspect of bilateral economic relations. The air transport agreement with Mauritius was renegotiated in January 2016 in response to the growing tourism demand. There has since been a steady increase in the number of German tourists. Following a significant drop in numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic, roughly 119,000 German tourists travelled to Mauritius in 2023. Only two other countries supply more holidaymakers to Mauritius than Germany. German businesses are active in Mauritius in a number of fields, including renewable energy. Purchases of real estate in Mauritius by German nationals are on the rise.

The European Union (EU) also plays a major role as regards business, trade and development. The EU is Mauritius’ most important trading partner, being the main source of all Foreign Direct Investment (roughly 49% thereof) and the largest donor of development assistance.

Interest in the German language is growing. German is currently taught at a tourism college and at four grammar schools in Mauritius, but it is not yet an integral part of school curricula. The Educational Exchange Service and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) promote academic exchange by funding scholarships. Germany has a particularly positive image in Mauritius. German technology, engineering and all kinds of products, especially mid-range and top-range cars, are held in high regard. The media reports on major events in Germany, including sports.

Development cooperation has been terminated due to Mauritius’ advanced state of development. However, the German Government still provides support through funding programmes in the context of the International Climate Initiative and the European Union.

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