New Delhi, Nov 21: Mauritian Prime Minister Paul Raymond Berenger, who arrived here on a four-day visit has called for enhanced economic partnership between India and his country. Talking to reporters at the forecourt of the Rashtrapti Bhavan after he was accorded a ceremonial welcome this morning, Mr Berenger said his first overseas visit as prime minister to India was very significant. The two countries enjoyed a very special relationship and he would work to make it more unique. Mr Berenger noted that 70 per cent of the Mauritian population was of Indian origin and it was natural that the two countries have excellent relations

Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani, senior civil and military officials were present on the occasion.


Mr Berenger will have delegation-level talks with the prime minister in the evening, followed by signing of three agreements between the two countries, including an Extradition Treaty. The other agreements are for cooperation in the field of non-conventional energy sources and for setting up of a world Hindi secretariat. A separate accord for the purchase of a Dornier aircraft by Mauritius from Hal will also be signed during the visit.

The Mauritian leader will meet Mr Advani, human resource Development Minister Murli Manohar Joshi tomorrow besides calling on President A P J Abdul Kalam and Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. He is also scheduled to address a luncheon meeting, being organised by CII and FICCI.


Mr Berenger will also meet Defence Minister George Fernandes tomorrow before emplaning for Agra. Mr Berenger, who arrived here from Goa, will also visit Bangalore and Mumbai during his week-long visit to India, before returning home. Bureau Report