Mauritius and Turkey Sign Four-Year Cultural Cooperation Deal
A new 2026-2029 agreement between Mauritius and Turkey will boost arts exchanges, heritage tourism and national library collaboration between the two countries.
Mauritius has approved a formal cultural cooperation programme with Turkey, covering the period from 2026 to 2029. The Council of Ministers, which met on Friday 7 November, gave the green light for the official signing of the Strategic Cooperation Programme between the two governments.
The agreement is designed to strengthen ties in arts, culture and cultural heritage, setting out a detailed roadmap of joint initiatives across four years. It is the latest in a series of bilateral arrangements Mauritius has pursued to diversify its international partnerships beyond traditional allies.
One of the centrepieces of the deal is the exchange of cultural and artistic troupes, with performers from each country travelling to take part in major events and festivals on the other side. This kind of cross-border cultural diplomacy is intended to raise public awareness of both nations' traditions and creative output.
The programme also places a strong emphasis on knowledge sharing around cultural heritage. This includes developing heritage tourism, a growing niche that attracts visitors specifically interested in historical sites, traditions and living culture rather than sun and sea. For Mauritius, whose historical identity spans African, Indian, European and Chinese influences, heritage tourism represents a significant untapped opportunity alongside its established beach resort sector.
Another key pillar is the professionalisation of the creative industries. Both countries have committed to sharing expertise that could help Mauritian artists, craftspeople and cultural entrepreneurs build more sustainable careers and reach wider markets.
Libraries will also play a central role. The national libraries of Mauritius and Turkey are expected to develop close working relationships in publishing and library science, known in French as bibliotheconomie. This could include joint digitisation projects, the exchange of publications and professional training for library staff.
What this means: For Mauritians working in the arts, heritage sector or creative industries, this agreement could open doors to residencies, training opportunities and international exposure in Turkey. For the broader public, it signals Mauritius continuing to build a network of cultural partnerships that complement its economic and diplomatic ties. Turkey has been an increasingly active diplomatic partner across Africa and the Indian Ocean region in recent years, making this agreement part of a wider pattern of engagement.
Formal signing of the programme is expected to follow the Council of Ministers approval, though no specific date has been announced.
Source: ION News
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Mauritius-Turkey cultural cooperation programme cover?β
The 2026-2029 Strategic Cooperation Programme between Mauritius and Turkey covers four main areas: exchanges of cultural and artistic troupes for festivals and events, sharing of knowledge on cultural heritage and heritage tourism, professionalisation of the creative industries, and collaboration between the national libraries of both countries in publishing and library science.
Who approved the Mauritius-Turkey cultural agreement?β
The agreement was approved by the Mauritius Council of Ministers, the weekly cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, at its session on Friday 7 November. Formal signing is expected to follow the approval.
Why is heritage tourism important for Mauritius?β
Mauritius has a rich multicultural history shaped by African, Indian, European and Chinese influences, reflected in sites such as Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Port Louis, and Le Morne Brabant. Heritage tourism targets visitors interested in history and living culture, offering a growth opportunity beyond the country's traditional beach and resort sector.
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