Karnal (Haryana), Dec 14: Mauritius President Sir Anerood Jugnauth believes ties between his country and India are on a strong footing because both share common roots.

"Since Mauritius gained independence, India has helped us a lot. Our cooperation is very strong. We are working together on many issues in international field, " said Jugnauth, while on a private visit to Karnal .

He was accompanied by his wife Sarojni. Both also attended a cultural programme. A Hindi music CD penned by him was released on the occasion.

India and Mauritius signed the double taxation avoidance agreement in 1983. Despite periodic criticism that the treaty has been abused for tax evasion, New Delhi has refused to scrap the agreement.

Mauritius has an emerging financial services sector, which includes more than 25,000 offshore companies.

Mauritius has an Indian immigrant population of nearly 70 percent. The island off the southeast coast of Africa celebrates its national day on March 12, as a tribute to Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian freedom struggle, which had greatly influenced its struggle for political and social rights. (ANI)