New Delhi, March 30, 2005 (GG2.NET)

INDIA’S Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left for Mauritius on Wednesday on a four-day visit, during the course of which he will seek to "deepen and widen" relations with the country and discuss ways for early conclusion of negotiations on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement.

Describing Mauritius as a "friendly gateway to African continent" and an "invaluable partner at multilateral fora", Singh told reporters before his departure that his visit was aimed at further strengthening the vast framework of the bilateral interactions.

During his stay, the Prime Minister will hold wide-ranging talks on bilateral, regional and international issues with Mauritian Prime Minister Paul Raymond Berenger, call on President Aneerood Jugnauth and meet Leader of Opposition Navinchandra Ramgoolam. He will also address the Mauritian National Assembly.

"I hope to discuss with the Mauritian leadership ways of further deepening the economic content of our relations, including through the early conclusion of negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement," Singh said.

Aspects relating to strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence and security areas, including counter-terrorism, human resources development, air links and cultural contacts are also expected to figure in the discussions, he said.