After Mauritius’s incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth conceded defeat in Sunday’s parliamentary election, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended his congratulations to Navin Ramgoolam, who is set to assume the prime minister’s role for a third term. Modi invited Ramgoolam to India and expressed optimism for strengthening ties between the two nations.

In a message on X, Modi stated, “Had a warm conversation with my friend Dr Navin Ramgoolam, congratulating him on his historic electoral victory. I wished him great success in leading Mauritius and extended an invitation to visit India. Look forward to working closely together to strengthen our special and unique partnership.”

Jugnauth, acknowledging the election results, said earlier in the day that his political alliance, L’Alliance Lepep, was facing a significant defeat. “L’Alliance Lepep is heading towards a huge defeat. I have tried to do what I can for the country and the population. The population has decided to choose another team. I wish good luck to the country,” Reuters quoted Jugnauth as saying.

Sunday’s parliamentary election saw Mauritian voters select lawmakers for 62 parliamentary seats, with a mandate for the next five years. The election featured a competitive field with 68 parties and five political alliances vying for control. Under Mauritius’s political system, the party or coalition that secures a majority of the parliamentary seats also gains the right to appoint the prime minister.

With this election victory, Ramgoolam is expected to continue shaping Mauritius’s future, while India and Mauritius look to deepen their diplomatic partnership under his leadership.