Members of the Parti Mauricien Xavier Duval (PMXD) gathered on Sunday for their “congress” on the theme “Future and progress”. It was the opportunity to introduce new members and reiterate the party line. The leader, Xavier-Luc Duval, was presented as one of the major members of the cabinet, as the “country now depends upon Xavier,” the minister of Tourism. The party leaders insisted on the values that the PMXD has always defended, which are those of Sir Gaëtan Duval when he was leading the Parti Mauricien Social Democrate (PMSD).

Social justice, equality of chances and meritocracy are the declared objectives of the party. “This is anchored into us: meritocracy. Everyone should obtain the place he/she deserves according to his/her merits.”

The leader highlighted the importance of new members, who are expected to strengthen the party. But he insisted that the party was already important with a lot of elected representatives at national and municipal levels. “Our voters expect a lot from us and we don’t want to disappoint them.” Moreover, he committed to fulfilling the trust the population and the government have put in him as minister of Tourism. “Tourism is the only sector, which will feed our children. This is the duty that has been given to us.”

During a dinner, organised by the Skal Club of Mauritius, the minister reiterated his wish to have a less expensive service between Mauritius and Reunion. He said proposals had already been made but what the government wants is a “very low price that is, a one-way ticket at Rs 1,000 plus taxes. But there is a need for cooperation with the private sector.