'Indian Ocean Region at top of our policy priorities': PM Modi

PM Modi, who is presently on a two-day tour of Mauritius, will also be the chief guest at the National Day celebrations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday stated that the Indian Ocean Region was at the top of India's policy priorities.

"The world speaks of a 21st century driven by the dynamism and energy of Asia and the Pacific. The Indian Ocean Region is at the top of our policy priorities," he said at a programme to mark the commissioning of the Barracuda here.

Prime Minister Modi said that it was a great honour to commission the Barracuda in the service of the National Coast Guard of Mauritius.

"Barracuda is a beautiful ship. She is also very capable; and, built to specifications of Mauritius. This ship has made a long journey - from Kolkata across the great arc of Indian Ocean to this beautiful shore. Barracuda will also help make our Indian Ocean safer and more secure," he said.

Addressing the National Assembly of Mauritius earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi said that the destinies of India and Mauritius were linked by the currents of the Indian Ocean and added that the bilateral security partnership has been a strong pillar in building the relationship between both countries.

He said India was privileged to be a development partner for Mauritius, which has stood out as a bright beacon of democracy.

Prime Minister Modi, who is presently on a two-day tour of Mauritius, will also be the chief guest at the National Day celebrations.