U.S. Embassy Maritime Security Education Partnership

July 21, 2020: The United States has a strong security partnership with Mauritius focused on strengthening coastal and maritime security capabilities.  This partnership includes long-term education and training opportunities for Mauritians for Professional Military Education in the United States.

U.S. Ambassador David Reimer recognized Krishnakumar Rajaram for earning a Master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterrey California. Mr. Rajaram, participated in the Combating Terrorism Fellowship Program and wrote his thesis on: “China-India Rivalry in the Indian Ocean Region and Security Concerns for the Republic of Mauritius.”  Mr. Rajaram said that the most valuable part of his experience was, “the fabulous institution in Monterrey and the golden opportunity to complement my police experience with academic coursework.”

Ambassador Reimer said that, “exchange programs create opportunities for leaders like Mr. Rajaram and Inspector Cassy to collaborate with others and find solutions to shared problems to ensure a secure future.”

Ambassador Reimer also recognized Inspector Vishal Cassy who will study for one year at the Naval Staff College in Newport, Rhode Island.  He is looking forward to being in an academic setting and said that, “the course work will allow me to gain additional knowledge to carry out my duties as a staff officer in the National Coast Guard.”

Operations, Mr. Rashid Ali Beekun also attended this small ceremony and said, “this bilateral exchange between our officers and U.S. institutions builds capacity and is an opportunity to meet other international leaders and experts.”

Both exchanges are supported by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) International Military Education and Training (IMET) program.  This program provides financial support for international personnel to attend U.S. military professional training programs.  The IMET program specifically targets current and future military and civilian leaders from African nations.