In what is hailed around the world as an agreement of historic proportions, Mauritius and Seychelles officials recently signed a treaty binding the two Indian Ocean nations on managing the continental shelf in their region. The agreement, which was signed during a ceremony on March 12, means the two nations will now work together to manage an area of ​​the seabed equivalent to just under 400,000 km2. What makes the agreement so significant is the fact that it is the first of its kind to be reached between the two countries without the need for arbitration or other assistance.

Present at the signing ceremony were the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and the President of Seychelles, James Michel. Both commented on the need for the two countries to faithfully manage the "blue economy" in order to conserve natural resources, protect ocean wildlife, and adequately develop the tourism economies of both countries without causing any adverse harm. They believe that the joint effort will also be culturally and socially beneficial, since the people of their two nations are united by a common goal.

On a related side note, Mauritian officials praised Seychelles for its political and social reforms aimed at encouraging Seychelles to take personal responsibility for their country. The Seychelles government has been working hard for the last 8-10 months to encourage private enterprise, private nature conservation, etc. Mauritius hopes to adopt similar policies in the near future as a means to obtain the same benefits now seen in Seychelles.

Yet despite expressions of mutual admiration, the two countries remain fierce competitors for tourism revenue. All-inclusive holidays in Mauritius have been the leader of the pack in the region for a long time; not a fact of life is likely to change anytime soon. Mauritius not only has beautiful natural resources like crystal clear waters, beautiful tropical gardens, and plenty of white sand, but it also has the strongest economy, the best infrastructure, and the most stable political environment. All of these things combine to help boost tourism.

Mauritius is a paradise for both families and couples. Families come during their annual vacation to enjoy activities like water skiing, deep sea fishing, biking and hiking etc. Couples love Mauritius for the excellent beach weddings and honeymoon packages available at most luxurious five-star resorts. And recently the resorts have been courting all kinds of travelers by promoting golf on the island. Mauritius has no less than eight championship level courses providing instruction and play in one of the most stunning settings in the world.

All eyes will be on Mauritius and Seychelles in the coming years to see how their new treaty benefits them both. At the very least, it should mean more attention is paid to the blue economy, which will end up benefiting the entire area.