SOMAN RAGAVAN
14 September, 2024
Subject : Premises of the Vice President of the Republic of Mauritius
Comments by Mistral AI
(Artificial Intelligence)
Volume 1
(1)
Soman Ragavan : Hello. I will post a document of mine on the Office of the Vice President of Mauritius. Please consider it and give extensive comments, mentioning diplomatic, decorum, protocol, national image and other issues. I will post the document when you write. I am a citizen of Mauritius.
(2)
Mistral AI :
Hello Soman Ragavan,
I\'m glad to assist you with reviewing your document. When you\'re ready, please share the text, and I\'ll provide extensive comments focusing on diplomatic language, decorum, protocol, national image, and other relevant issues. To ensure a comprehensive review, I\'ll consider the following aspects:
Please go ahead and share the document, and I\'ll do my best to provide constructive feedback based on these aspects.
Looking forward to your response.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(3)
Soman Ragavan :
Here is my document :
VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE
MAURITIUS
On 14 November, 2019 I wrote the following on my website (that website has now been closed) :
“PART B : VICE PRESIDENT’S OFFICES
Mauritius became a republic in 1992, after obtaining independence in March 1968. The post of Governor was replaced by a President and a Vice President. The President occupies acceptable premises at Réduit, at the place that used to be the Governor’s residence.
However, the office of the Vice President is located in a RENTED building in another town, since that office was created in 1992. This is not acceptable in the name of decorum. The Vice President receives the visit of foreign dignitaries and other foreign VIPs. The place is cramped and certainly not to the level expected of a top institution of the State.
Sometimes the Vice President replaces the President. On such occasions as well as on other occasions, he attends banquets and official State receptions, offers toasts to foreign dignitaries, receives visiting heads of States/heads of Government, etc. After his acting appointment as President, and even in his usual functions as Vice President, he goes back to that RENTED building... Since 1992...
A private citizen out there is saying : “The Vice President of the Republic is my TENANT !...” LOCATAIRE !... Even in the most impoverished State one does not find this sort of thing...
I have said that a large plot of State land should be identified at the geographical centre of the island and vast premises/buildings be set up for the Vice President’s Office as well as nearby large parking lots and State banqueting facilities.
The Indian Government has helped Mauritius enormously since our independence in March 1968. Half of the Mauritian population is of Indian origin. Mauritius has a special relationship with India. Mauritius should seek financing from the Indian Government for setting up the State facilities I mention above for the Vice President’s Office and State banqueting facilities.
The Vice President of the Republic operating from a building rented from a private citizen is a national shame... The rent runs into millions of rupees every year.
Please comment extensively on the issues.
(4)
Mistral AI :
Thank you for sharing your document, Soman Ragavan. I have reviewed it and will provide extensive comments focusing on diplomatic language, decorum, protocol, national image, and other relevant issues.
### General Observations
- The tone of the document is quite assertive and direct, which may not always be appropriate when addressing high-ranking officials or discussing matters of national importance. Diplomatic language typically involves a more nuanced and respectful approach.
- The document raises valid points about the prestige and decorum of the Vice President\'s office. However, the language used could be more refined to maintain a respectful and formal tone.
- The document highlights important issues related to the national image of Mauritius. However, the way these issues are presented could be improved to avoid any negative connotations.
- The document is clear and coherent, but it could benefit from a more structured format to enhance readability and flow.
- The tone is passionate and concerned, which is good. However, it could be softened to be more diplomatic and respectful.
- There are a few grammatical and punctuation errors that should be corrected for clarity and professionalism.
### Specific Comments
- The introduction could be more formal and respectful. For example:
```
VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE
MAURITIUS
On 14 November 2019, I wrote the following on my website (which has since been closed):
“PART B: VICE PRESIDENT’S OFFICES
“4. In the interest of State prestige, the Vice President’s office should not be located in a rented building. State-owned land should be utilized. Clarisse House could be renovated and used as offices for the Vice President. Perhaps this has been considered in the past.”
```”
- The historical context is well-presented but could be more concise:
```
Mauritius became a republic in 1992, after gaining independence in March 1968. The post of Governor was replaced by a President and a Vice President. The President occupies suitable premises at Réduit, which was formerly the Governor’s residence.
```
- The description of the current situation could be more diplomatic:
```
However, the office of the Vice President has been located in a rented building since its creation in 1992. This is not befitting of the prestige and decorum expected of such a high office. The Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and other VIPs, and the current premises are cramped and not up to the standard expected of a top institution of the State.
```
- The description of the Vice President\'s role could be more respectful:
```
On occasions when the Vice President acts as President, and even in his usual functions, he attends banquets and official State receptions, offers toasts to foreign dignitaries, and receives visiting heads of States/heads of Government. It is not appropriate for such a high-ranking official to operate from rented premises.
```
- The proposed solution could be more diplomatic and respectful:
```
I have suggested that a large plot of State land be identified at the geographical center of the island, where vast premises and buildings could be set up for the Vice President’s Office, along with nearby large parking lots and State banqueting facilities.
```
- The request for assistance from the Indian Government could be more diplomatic:
```
The Indian Government has been a significant supporter of Mauritius since our independence in March 1968. Half of the Mauritian population is of Indian origin, and Mauritius shares a special relationship with India. It would be beneficial to seek financing from the Indian Government for setting up the State facilities mentioned above for the Vice President’s Office and State banqueting facilities.
```
- The conclusion could be more respectful and diplomatic:
```
The current situation, where the Vice President of the Republic operates from a building rented from a private citizen, is not befitting of the prestige and decorum expected of such a high office. The rent runs into millions of rupees every year, which could be better utilized for more appropriate premises.
```
### Final Thoughts
Your document raises important issues that deserve attention. By refining the language and tone, you can ensure that your message is received positively and respectfully. Consider using more diplomatic language and maintaining a formal tone throughout the document.
If you have any specific questions or need further clarification, please let me know.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(5)
Soman Ragavan :
Some 32 years after accession to the status of Republic, the Office of the Vice President is still on rented premises. Clearly the issues are not understood here. The transition was from colony to an independent state on 12 March 1968. The status of Republic was as from 1992.
(6)
Mistral AI :
Thank you for the additional context, Soman Ragavan. I\'ll incorporate this information into a revised version of your document, maintaining a diplomatic and respectful tone while addressing the issues you\'ve raised. Here\'s a suggested revision:
---
**VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE, MAURITIUS**
**Historical Context**
Mauritius gained independence from colonial rule on 12 March 1968 and became a republic on 12 March 1992. With the transition to a republic, the posts of President and Vice President were established, replacing the former colonial Governor. The President\'s office is appropriately situated at Réduit, the former Governor\'s residence. However, more than three decades after achieving republic status, the Office of the Vice President remains housed in rented premises. This situation warrants attention and rectification.
**Current Situation**
The Office of the Vice President is currently located in a rented building, which is not in line with the prestige and decorum expected of such a high institution of the State. The Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and other VIPs, and the current premises may not reflect the desired level of stateliness. Moreover, the Vice President occasionally acts as President, attending banquets, offering toasts to foreign dignitaries, and receiving visiting heads of States/heads of Government. It is essential that the Vice President\'s office reflects the importance and solemnity of the role.
**Proposed Solution**
To address this situation, I propose the following:
**Conclusion**
The current situation, where the Vice President\'s Office is housed in rented premises, is not aligned with the prestige and decorum expected of a high-ranking state institution. Addressing this issue will not only enhance the national image but also ensure that the Vice President\'s Office is befitting of its role and responsibilities. The millions of rupees currently spent on rent could be better utilized to establish more appropriate and permanent premises.
I urge the relevant authorities to consider this proposal and take the necessary steps to rectify this long-standing issue.
---
**Key Changes Made:**
Please review this revised version and let me know if you\'d like any further changes or if you have any other questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(7)
Soman Ragavan :
Even the parking is limited at the current location. With a large number of cars bringing in VIPs, some official cars will have to park in the road...
(8)
Mistral AI :
Thank you for the additional information, Soman Ragavan. I\'ll incorporate this detail into the revised document to further emphasize the need for improved facilities. Here\'s the updated version:
---
**VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE, MAURITIUS**
**Historical Context**
Mauritius gained independence from colonial rule on 12 March 1968 and became a republic on 12 March 1992. With the transition to a republic, the posts of President and Vice President were established, replacing the former colonial Governor. The President\'s office is appropriately situated at Réduit, the former Governor\'s residence. However, more than three decades after achieving republic status, the Office of the Vice President remains housed in rented premises. This situation warrants attention and rectification.
**Current Situation**
The Office of the Vice President is currently located in a rented building, which is not in line with the prestige and decorum expected of such a high institution of the State. The Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and other VIPs, and the current premises may not reflect the desired level of stateliness. Moreover, the Vice President occasionally acts as President, attending banquets, offering toasts to foreign dignitaries, and receiving visiting heads of States/heads of Government. It is essential that the Vice President\'s office reflects the importance and solemnity of the role.
Additionally, the current location suffers from limited parking facilities. With a large number of cars bringing in VIPs, some official vehicles are forced to park on the road, which is not only inconvenient but also poses security and logistical challenges.
**Proposed Solution**
To address this situation, I propose the following:
**Conclusion**
The current situation, where the Vice President\'s Office is housed in rented premises with limited parking facilities, is not aligned with the prestige and decorum expected of a high-ranking state institution. Addressing this issue will not only enhance the national image but also ensure that the Vice President\'s Office is befitting of its role and responsibilities. The millions of rupees currently spent on rent could be better utilized to establish more appropriate and permanent premises that include adequate parking and security measures.
I urge the relevant authorities to consider this proposal and take the necessary steps to rectify this long-standing issue.
---
**Key Changes Made:**
Please review this revised version and let me know if you\'d like any further changes or if you have any other questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(9)
Soman Ragavan :
Advantages of State-owned banqueting facilities :
--the premises are under total State control 24/7
--the premises are available 24/7
--saving on rent
--better national status projected towards guests
--better decorum and prestige nationally and internationally
--better security
--vast parking
The Vice President’s Office can be located nearby.
(10)
Mistral AI :
Thank you for providing additional advantages of having State-owned banqueting facilities. I\'ll incorporate these points into the revised document to strengthen the argument for establishing new premises for the Vice President\'s Office and State banqueting facilities. Here\'s the updated version:
---
**VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE, MAURITIUS**
**Historical Context**
Mauritius gained independence from colonial rule on 12 March 1968 and became a republic on 12 March 1992. With the transition to a republic, the posts of President and Vice President were established, replacing the former colonial Governor. The President\'s office is appropriately situated at Réduit, the former Governor\'s residence. However, more than three decades after achieving republic status, the Office of the Vice President remains housed in rented premises. This situation warrants attention and rectification.
**Current Situation**
The Office of the Vice President is currently located in a rented building, which is not in line with the prestige and decorum expected of such a high institution of the State. The Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and other VIPs, and the current premises may not reflect the desired level of stateliness. Moreover, the Vice President occasionally acts as President, attending banquets, offering toasts to foreign dignitaries, and receiving visiting heads of States/heads of Government. It is essential that the Vice President\'s office reflects the importance and solemnity of the role.
Additionally, the current location suffers from limited parking facilities. With a large number of cars bringing in VIPs, some official vehicles are forced to park on the road, which is not only inconvenient but also poses security and logistical challenges.
**Advantages of State-Owned Premises and Banqueting Facilities**
Establishing State-owned premises for the Vice President\'s Office and banqueting facilities would offer several advantages:
**Proposed Solution**
To address the current situation, I propose the following:
**Conclusion**
The current situation, where the Vice President\'s Office is housed in rented premises with limited parking facilities, is not aligned with the prestige and decorum expected of a high-ranking state institution. Addressing this issue by establishing State-owned premises and banqueting facilities will not only enhance the national image but also ensure that the Vice President\'s Office is befitting of its role and responsibilities. The millions of rupees currently spent on rent could be better utilized to establish more appropriate and permanent premises that include adequate parking and security measures.
I urge the relevant authorities to consider this proposal and take the necessary steps to rectify this long-standing issue.
---
**Key Changes Made:**
Please review this revised version and let me know if you\'d like any further changes or if you have any other questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(11)
Soman Ragavan :
(a) There are many Government Departments which are tenants of private landlords. But, the case of the Office of the Vice President is different. It is one of the top offices of the land (even a constitutional one) and carries many implications. It has implications nationally and internationally.
(b) At any time the private landlord can decide to take back the building for his own use, or sell it, or ask for an increase in the rent after the expiry of the current lease; a new tenant can offer a higher rent; will the landlord decline that and stick to the lower rent the Government is paying ?!
(c) It makes sense that the Office of the Vice President should have always been on State land.
(d) It matters not that no problem has arisen since the building has been rented out; on a question of principle, the Vice President CANNOT be a tenant of a private citizen.
(e) Do research and list all the cases where Mauritius is number one in Africa and in developing countries; then say if it makes sense for the Vice President to be a tenant of a private landlord.
(12)
Mistral AI :
Thank you for providing additional points to strengthen the argument. I\'ll incorporate these into the revised document to further emphasize the importance of having the Vice President\'s Office on State-owned land. Here\'s the updated version:
---
**VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE, MAURITIUS**
**Historical Context**
Mauritius gained independence from colonial rule on 12 March 1968 and became a republic on 12 March 1992. With the transition to a republic, the posts of President and Vice President were established, replacing the former colonial Governor. The President\'s office is appropriately situated at Réduit, the former Governor\'s residence. However, more than three decades after achieving republic status, the Office of the Vice President remains housed in rented premises. This situation warrants attention and rectification.
**Current Situation**
The Office of the Vice President is currently located in a rented building, which is not in line with the prestige and decorum expected of such a high institution of the State. The Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and other VIPs, and the current premises may not reflect the desired level of stateliness. Moreover, the Vice President occasionally acts as President, attending banquets, offering toasts to foreign dignitaries, and receiving visiting heads of States/heads of Government. It is essential that the Vice President\'s office reflects the importance and solemnity of the role.
Additionally, the current location suffers from limited parking facilities. With a large number of cars bringing in VIPs, some official vehicles are forced to park on the road, which is not only inconvenient but also poses security and logistical challenges.
**Advantages of State-Owned Premises and Banqueting Facilities**
Establishing State-owned premises for the Vice President\'s Office and banqueting facilities would offer several advantages:
**Unique Considerations for the Vice President\'s Office**
**Proposed Solution**
To address the current situation, I propose the following:
**Conclusion**
The current situation, where the Vice President\'s Office is housed in rented premises with limited parking facilities, is not aligned with the prestige and decorum expected of a high-ranking state institution. Addressing this issue by establishing State-owned premises and banqueting facilities will not only enhance the national image but also ensure that the Vice President\'s Office is befitting of its role and responsibilities. The millions of rupees currently spent on rent could be better utilized to establish more appropriate and permanent premises that include adequate parking and security measures.
I urge the relevant authorities to consider this proposal and take the necessary steps to rectify this long-standing issue.
---
**Key Changes Made:**
Please review this revised version and let me know if you\'d like any further changes or if you have any other questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(13)
Soman Ragavan :
Please make concluding remarks and mention in particular what image Mauritius should project to foreign countries about this key institution of the State.
(14)
Mistral AI :
Certainly, Soman Ragavan. I\'ll incorporate concluding remarks that emphasize the importance of projecting a positive and prestigious image of Mauritius to foreign countries through the establishment of appropriate facilities for the Vice President\'s Office. Here\'s the updated version:
---
**VICE-PRESIDENT’S OFFICE, MAURITIUS**
**Historical Context**
Mauritius gained independence from colonial rule on 12 March 1968 and became a republic on 12 March 1992. With the transition to a republic, the posts of President and Vice President were established, replacing the former colonial Governor. The President\'s office is appropriately situated at Réduit, the former Governor\'s residence. However, more than three decades after achieving republic status, the Office of the Vice President remains housed in rented premises. This situation warrants attention and rectification.
**Current Situation**
The Office of the Vice President is currently located in a rented building, which is not in line with the prestige and decorum expected of such a high institution of the State. The Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and other VIPs, and the current premises may not reflect the desired level of stateliness. Moreover, the Vice President occasionally acts as President, attending banquets, offering toasts to foreign dignitaries, and receiving visiting heads of States/heads of Government. It is essential that the Vice President\'s office reflects the importance and solemnity of the role.
Additionally, the current location suffers from limited parking facilities. With a large number of cars bringing in VIPs, some official vehicles are forced to park on the road, which is not only inconvenient but also poses security and logistical challenges.
**Advantages of State-Owned Premises and Banqueting Facilities**
Establishing State-owned premises for the Vice President\'s Office and banqueting facilities would offer several advantages:
**Unique Considerations for the Vice President\'s Office**
**Proposed Solution**
To address the current situation, I propose the following:
**Conclusion**
The current situation, where the Vice President\'s Office is housed in rented premises with limited parking facilities, is not aligned with the prestige and decorum expected of a high-ranking state institution. Addressing this issue by establishing State-owned premises and banqueting facilities will not only enhance the national image but also ensure that the Vice President\'s Office is befitting of its role and responsibilities. The millions of rupees currently spent on rent could be better utilized to establish more appropriate and permanent premises that include adequate parking and security measures.
**Image Projection to Foreign Countries**
Mauritius, as a nation, has made significant strides in various sectors and has earned a reputation as a progressive and forward-thinking country. It is crucial that this positive image is reflected in all aspects of our governance, including the facilities and infrastructure of key state institutions. The Office of the Vice President, being one of the highest offices in the land, should project an image of stability, prestige, and decorum to foreign countries. By establishing State-owned premises and banqueting facilities, Mauritius can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the highest standards of governance and international relations. This will not only enhance our national image but also strengthen our diplomatic ties and global standing.
I urge the relevant authorities to consider this proposal and take the necessary steps to rectify this long-standing issue.
---
**Key Changes Made:**