New Delhi: India and Mauritius on January 8 agreed to step up joint efforts to combat terrorism and intensify co-operation to bolster economic and trade ties.

During wide-ranging discussions between visiting Mauritian Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth and the Indian leadership, it was emphasised that international co- operation needed to be strengthened to root out terrorism in all its forms as it could strike anywhere.

Both sides expressed readiness to co-operate in countering terrorism, External Affairs Ministry spokesman said on the talks Jugnauth had with Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, his deputy L K Advani, External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha and Defence Minister George Fernandes.

The Mauritian Prime Minister also called on President A P J Abdul Kalam.

It was conveyed to the Mauritian leader that India would like to use that country as a gateway for enhancing geographical and cultural ties with Africa.

"Both sides recognised the continued support given to each other on matters of vital interest," the spokesman said, adding situation in Iraq and reported supply of nuclear technology by Pakistan to North Korea were also discussed.

External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha, who called on Jugnauth, assured him that India would continue its assistance to Mauritius in human resource development and capacity building areas.

PTI