Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday emphasised that his four-day visit to Mauritius was aimed at strengthening the vast framework of the bilateral interactions between the two countries.

Addressing reporters before he left for Mauritius, the PM said he would seek to 'deepen and widen' relations between the two countries.

"I hope to discuss with Mauritian leaders, 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.

During his stay, the PM 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 the Opposition Navinchandra Ramgoolam. He will also address the Mauritian National Assembly.

Aspects related to strengthening of 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, Singh added.

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