Under Jugnauth, Mauritius fostered strong, friendly relations with the West, with India, and with southern and eastern African nations. The country belongs to the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Commonwealth, the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), the Indian Ocean Commission, the Community of Eastern and South African States (COMESA), and the Indian Ocean Rim Association. Jugnauth was also involved in 2002 in implementing the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). Jugnauth is known as a vocal advocate of developing countries, and has called on developed countries to honour their commitments of aid.
In recognition of the strong ethnic ties Mauritius shares with India, Jugnauth was asked to open a meeting on the Indian diaspora in January 2003 entitled "Pravasi Bharatiya Divas" or "The Day of Indians Living Abroad." The two nations also agreed to combat terrorism together.
Mauritian foreign policy is driven by trade and a commitment to democracy. With its British/French political heritage, the country has always kept close ties with the European Union member states and western countries in general. Still, Mauritius is regarded geographically as part of Africa and as such must maintain good relations with its African neighbors, especially South Africa, its chief partner in trade. Much of the nation's foreign policy is shaped from its close association with the SADC and the OAU. At the same time, Mauritius keeps relations with India strong for commercial benefits.