India and Mauritania Strengthen Ties with New Agreements
On October 17, India and Mauritania signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance their diplomatic relationship. The signing took place in Nouakchott, Mauritania, with the presence of Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani. This marks the first visit by an Indian President to Mauritania, as part of a three-nation tour including Algeria and Malawi from October 13 to 19.
Key Agreements
The MoUs include an agreement for consultations between the foreign ministries of both countries. This aims to promote bilateral relations in various fields, contributing to international peace and security. It will also facilitate cooperation in research on foreign policy issues and the exchange of archival documents.
Another MoU was signed between India’s Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service and Mauritania’s Diplomatic Academy. This agreement will promote cooperation in training programs for diplomats and the exchange of experts and faculty members.
Visa Exemption and Cultural Exchange
India and Mauritania agreed on a visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and official/service passports, allowing them to enter each other’s countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
A cultural exchange program was also established for 2024-2028, aiming to strengthen cultural ties in areas such as music, dance, theatre, art, and more.
Doubts Revealed
MoUs -: MoUs stands for Memorandums of Understanding. These are agreements between two or more parties, in this case, countries, to work together on certain issues or projects.
Droupadi Murmu -: Droupadi Murmu is the President of India. She is the head of the country and represents India in international matters.
Mohamed Ould Ghazouani -: Mohamed Ould Ghazouani is the President of Mauritania. He is the leader of Mauritania and works with other countries to improve relations.
Diplomatic ties -: Diplomatic ties refer to the relationship between two countries. It involves working together on various issues like trade, culture, and politics to benefit both nations.
Visa exemption -: Visa exemption means that people with diplomatic passports from India and Mauritania can visit each other’s countries without needing a visa for up to 90 days. This makes it easier for diplomats to travel for work.