GIS – 12 January 2026: The Ambassador of the United States of America to Mauritius and Seychelles, Mr Henry V. Jardine, paid a farewell call on the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, today at the New Treasury Building in Port Louis, marking the end of his three-year diplomatic assignment in Mauritius.
In a statement following the meeting, Ambassador Jardine described his discussions with the Prime Minister as very positive, noting that the meeting marked his farewell after three years of service. He recalled having known Dr Ramgoolam during his time in the Opposition and expressed his deep appreciation for the strong support and engagement extended by the Prime Minister to the U.S. Embassy throughout his tenure.
The Ambassador also commended Dr Ramgoolam’s leadership on key issues, notably in the areas of law enforcement, security cooperation and maritime security. He highlighted the upcoming Cutlass Exercise, scheduled for February, which he said would be the largest to date, bringing together U.S. officials and representatives from participating countries.
Ambassador Jardine further spoke about the progress of the new U.S. Embassy building, noting that important advances had been made on the project. According to him, 2026 will be a landmark year for bilateral and international engagement, as the United States marks its 250th anniversary and Mauritius prepares to host the U.S.–Africa Business Summit in July. Organised by the Corporate Council on Africa in collaboration with the Government of Mauritius, the Summit is expected to attract around 3,000 delegates, comprising African leaders and senior U.S. officials, and will showcase Mauritius as a gateway to Africa and a prime destination for business and investment.
Discussions during the meeting covered a wide range of issues of mutual interest. Describing the moment as “bittersweet”, Ambassador Jardine said he felt fortunate and honoured to have served as U.S. Ambassador to Mauritius, adding that it had been a rewarding and enriching experience. He noted that his departure came with mixed emotions, as he reflected on the progress achieved and the warm welcome he received throughout his stay in the country.
U.S. Ambassador Henry V. Jardine is a senior career diplomat with the rank of Minister Counselor, confirmed as Ambassador to Mauritius and Seychelles in December 2022 and officially accredited in February 2023. He has held numerous high-level posts within the U.S. Department of State, including senior leadership roles in global talent management, overseas buildings operations, Western Hemisphere affairs, and regional security policy, as well as overseas postings in Thailand, Albania, India, Bangladesh and Barbados.
Before joining the Foreign Service, he served as a U.S. Army captain in elite infantry and airborne units. He holds a Master’s degree in National Resource Strategy and a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University. Ambassador Jardine has received multiple State Department and Army honours, in recognition of his distinguished service, leadership, and professional excellence.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
