馃嚥馃嚭MauritiusEast Africa
Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam attends official luncheon at Seychelles' 50th independence celebration
via Le Mauricien1 min read
Mauritian Prime Minister Dr. Navin Ramgoolam attended an official luncheon at the Eden Blu Hotel, hosted by Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie, as part of the country's 50th independence anniversary celebrations. The event in Victoria brought together several high-ranking dignitaries, including Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, president of the African Union Commission, and his delegation. The gathering fostered diplomatic ties and strengthened regional cooperation on issues such as economic integration, maritime security, and sustainable development. This official luncheon served as a key dialogue session ahead of the planned ceremonial festivities for the Seychelles' golden jubilee.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Mauricien.
Housing and Lands Minister Shakeel Mohamed stated that the context of the 2026-27 budget is crucial, having assessed the financial losses incurred by the MSM government and their impact on the state's ability to maintain the Basic Retirement Pension BRP. He claimed that the MSM's actions, described as "criminal negligence," significantly reduced the government's flexibility regarding the old-age pension. Mohamed asserted that the country faces not just administrative dysfunction but a systemic "State Capture" orchestrated by the MSM, estimating 185 billion rupees in losses over the last decade due to this management. He equated this amount to 14 months of BRP payments, or approximately 40 months of lost pensions. Addressing the sugar tax debate, Mohamed accused Opposition Leader Joe Lesjongard of seeking political points, highlighting that over 20% of the adult population suffers from diabetes, double the global average. He noted that the World Health Organization has recommended a sugar tax since 2022 and criticized the opposition for mocking the sugar content in coconut water, despite the previous government having introduced a sugar content tax in 2022-23. Mohamed also praised the Prime Minister for making courageous decisions. Regarding housing, he confirmed that over 5,200 units would be delivered in the current financial year but expressed dissatisfaction with the current model, advocating for a move beyond social housing to address the needs of higher-income earners an
Karen Foo Kune-Bacha, Junior Minister of Youth and Sports, stated that the 2026-27 budget reflects a global vision for the country and responsibility towards future generations. She described Menstrual Leave and the extension of maternity leave as significant advancements for women. However, she expressed a desire for maternity and paternity leave to be converted into parental leave to promote shared responsibility and prevent employment discrimination against women. She also proposed the establishment of a national social insurance fund to finance part of this leave. The Junior Minister regretted that various budget measures were overshadowed by a single issue, acknowledging that the government addressed a sensitive topic with pensions. She commended Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam's approach in making adjustments and listening to the public. She emphasized that a budget is not fixed but is meant to be debated and adjusted when necessary, adding that governing involves making difficult decisions and listening. She believes prosperity encompasses not only economic success but also preparing for the future of young people, noting that the budget recognizes their talent and potential. She welcomed opportunities in modern technology, artificial intelligence, and the startup project, which will enable young people to transform ideas into concrete projects. Karen Foo Kune-Bacha highlighted the importance of investing in values, suggesting that in a world shaped by social networks,
Arvin Boolell, the Minister of Agro-Industry, stated that producing 25% of the country's food by 2035 is an achievable goal. He emphasized the government's commitment to fundamental reforms without new taxes, contrasting this with what he described as the previous administration's "mafioso and corrupt regime." Boolell praised the Prime Minister for repealing the Means Test for the State Age Pension, highlighting it as an act of humanity and responsiveness, unlike a similar measure in 2004. He also called for an open debate on the aging workforce and exploring solutions like diaspora engagement and circular migration. The Minister noted positive changes under the current government, including a reduction in public debt and improved economic resilience. His ministry has been allocated over Rs 5 billion, with plans for sectoral reforms leveraging artificial intelligence and a partnership with the Ministry of Information Technology. Food security is a national priority, aiming for a more resilient and sustainable system. Boolell also highlighted the vast potential of the blue economy, which the government intends to double its contribution to GDP, aiming to make Mauritius a leading hub for fisheries and seafood in the Indian Ocean region. Budgetary provisions include expanding the fishing fleet, modernizing the port, creating a fishing port, and aquaculture projects with Rs 1 billion in assistance from the Indian government, all while ensuring sustainable development of marine re