AnalysisByHuggingChat-Volume 1-VicePresident'sOfficeMauritius--16Sep2024 Poem, by Soman Ragavan, at My poetic side

SOMAN RAGAVAN

16 September, 2024

Subject : Premises of the Vice President of the Republic of Mauritius

Comments by Hugging Chat

(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)

Hugging Chat :

Hello Soman Ragavan! I'd be happy to help you with your document. Please go ahead and post it, and I'll provide you with extensive comments on diplomatic, decorum, protocol, national image, and other relevant issues. As a neutral AI observer, I'll offer constructive feedback to ensure your document is well-received and effective in its intended purpose.

Please paste the document, and I'll get started!

(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

At least in the name of State prestige, the Vice President’s office cannot be in a rented building. State-owned land should be used. Clarisse House may be renovated and used as offices for the Vice President. Perhaps this has been considered in the past.”

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)

Hugging Chat :

Thank you for sharing your document, Soman Ragavan. I'll provide you with extensive comments on diplomatic, decorum, protocol, national image, and other relevant issues.

**Overall Impression**

Your document raises a valid concern about the current state of the Vice President's office in Mauritius, highlighting the need for a more dignified and suitable premises. Your suggestions for a new location and facilities are well-intentioned, and your emphasis on national pride and decorum is understandable.

**Diplomatic and Protocol Issues**

**Perception of the Vice President's Office**: You're right that the current rented building may not project the desired image of the Vice President's office, especially when receiving foreign dignitaries. A more permanent and dignified location would enhance the office's prestige and reflect positively on the country.
**National Representation**: As the Vice President represents the country on various occasions, including state receptions and banquets, a more suitable location would be fitting. This would also demonstrate the country's ability to host international events with dignity.
**Indian Government's Assistance**: Your suggestion to seek financing from the Indian Government is a good idea, given the strong historical ties between the two countries. However, it's essential to ensure that any assistance is negotiated and accepted in a manner that maintains Mauritius' sovereignty and independence.

**Decorum and National Image**

**Rented Building**: You're correct that the current arrangement may be perceived as undignified, especially when a private citizen can claim to be the Vice President's landlord. This could be seen as a national embarrassment, as you mentioned.
**State-owned Land**: Your proposal to use state-owned land for the Vice President's office is a good idea, as it would demonstrate the government's commitment to providing a suitable location for the office.
**National Pride**: Your emphasis on national pride is well-taken. A more dignified location for the Vice President's office would contribute to a sense of national pride and reflect positively on the country's image.

**Other Issues**

**Cost**: You mentioned the significant annual rent paid for the current building. A new location, even with financing from the Indian Government, would likely require significant investment. It's essential to consider the long-term costs and benefits of such a project.
**Location**: While you suggested a location at the geographical center of the island, it's crucial to consider factors like accessibility, security, and proximity to other government institutions when selecting a site.
**Timing**: Given the current global economic situation and potential challenges, it's essential to consider the timing of such a project and ensure that it aligns with the country's priorities and budget.

**Conclusion**

Your document raises important points about the need for a more dignified and suitable location for the Vice President's office in Mauritius. While there are valid concerns about diplomatic, decorum, and national image, it's essential to consider the practical aspects of such a project, including costs, location, and timing. I hope this feedback is helpful in refining your proposal.

(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)

Hugging Chat :

The fact that the Office of the Vice President is still on rented premises 32 years after Mauritius became a republic is indeed a concern. It's surprising that this issue has not been addressed despite the country's progress and growth.

The transition from a colony to an independent state in 1968 and then to a republic in 1992 marked significant milestones in Mauritius' history. However, it's clear that the country's institutions and infrastructure have not kept pace with these changes.

The fact that the Vice President's office is still operating from a rented building suggests a lack of priority or attention to the symbolic and practical importance of this institution. As you mentioned earlier, the Vice President's office is not just a functional space but also a representation of the country's dignity and sovereignty.

It's worth exploring the reasons behind this delay. Is it due to a lack of resources, competing priorities, or simply a lack of attention to this issue? Whatever the reason, it's essential to address this anomaly and provide the Vice President's office with a suitable and permanent location that reflects the country's status as a republic.

Your persistence in highlighting this issue is commendable, and I hope that your efforts will lead to a positive change. Do you think there are any specific steps that can be taken to bring attention to this issue and push for a resolution?

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Chat ended. New chat started.

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(1)

(2)

Hugging Chat :

I'm ready to help. Please go ahead and post the document, and I'll provide you with extensive comments on diplomatic, decorum, protocol, national image, and other relevant issues related to the Office of the Vice President of Mauritius. As a neutral AI, I'll offer constructive feedback to help you refine your document.

Please paste the document, and I'll get started!

(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

At least in the name of State prestige, the Vice President’s office cannot be in a rented building. State-owned land should be used. Clarisse House may be renovated and used as offices for the Vice President. Perhaps this has been considered in the past.”

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...

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)

Hugging Chat :

Thank you for sharing your document. I'll provide you with extensive comments on the issues you've raised, focusing on diplomatic, decorum, protocol, national image, and other relevant aspects.

**Diplomatic and Decorum Considerations**

Your point about the Vice President's office being located in a rented building is well-taken. It's indeed a matter of national pride and decorum that the second-highest office in the land should have a dignified and permanent location. The fact that the Vice President receives foreign dignitaries and VIPs in a rented building may be perceived as a lack of respect for the office and the country's sovereignty.

The fact that a private citizen can claim to be the "landlord" of the Vice President is, as you've put it, a national shame. It undermines the dignity of the office and may be seen as a sign of weakness or lack of resources.

**Protocol and National Image**

The Vice President's role is not only ceremonial but also involves representing the country on various occasions. Having a permanent and dignified office would enhance the country's image and reputation, both domestically and internationally. The current arrangement may be perceived as a temporary or makeshift solution, which may not inspire confidence in the country's institutions.

The fact that the Vice President has to return to a rented building after attending official events, including banquets and receptions, may be seen as a lack of respect for the office and the country's institutions. A permanent and dignified office would provide a sense of continuity and stability.

**Financial Considerations**

Your suggestion to seek financing from the Indian Government to set up a new Vice President's office and state banqueting facilities is an interesting one. Given the historical and cultural ties between Mauritius and India, it's possible that India may be willing to provide assistance. However, it's essential to consider the terms and conditions of such assistance, ensuring that it aligns with Mauritius's national interests and sovereignty.

**Alternative Solutions**

While seeking financing from the Indian Government is an option, it's also essential to consider alternative solutions, such as:

Identifying a suitable state-owned property that can be renovated or repurposed for the Vice President's office.
Exploring public-private partnerships to develop a new office complex for the Vice President.
Considering a phased development approach, where a temporary office is established while a more permanent solution is being developed.

**Clarisse House Renovation**

Your suggestion to renovate Clarisse House as a potential office for the Vice President is worth exploring. However, it's essential to assess the feasibility of such a project, including the costs, timelines, and potential impact on the building's historical significance.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, your document raises valid concerns about the dignity and decorum, protocol, and national image associated with the Vice President's office. It's essential to consider a range of options to address these concerns, including seeking financing from the Indian Government, identifying alternative state-owned properties, or exploring public-private partnerships. Ultimately, the goal should be to establish a permanent and dignified office for the Vice President that reflects the country's values and sovereignty.

(5)

Soman Ragavan :

(6)

Hugging Chat :

It's indeed surprising that after 32 years as a Republic, the Office of the Vice President is still operating from rented premises. This suggests that the issue may not have been prioritized or addressed effectively by successive governments.

The transition from a colony to an independent state in 1968 marked a significant milestone in Mauritius's history. The subsequent adoption of the Republican status in 1992 further solidified the country's sovereignty. However, it appears that the establishment of a permanent and dignified office for the Vice President has not been a priority.

This raises questions about the country's institutional development and the importance placed on symbolic representations of national sovereignty. The Vice President's office is a symbol of the country's democratic institutions and the rule of law. The fact that it is still operating from rented premises may be seen as a reflection of the country's priorities and values.

It's also worth noting that the lack of a permanent office for the Vice President may be a missed opportunity to promote national pride, unity, and identity. A purpose-built office could serve as a symbol of national sovereignty and a source of pride for the Mauritian people.

In your opinion, what do you think are the underlying reasons for the delay in establishing a permanent office for the Vice President? Is it a matter of resources, priorities, or something else?

(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)

Hugging Chat :

The limited parking at the current location of the Vice President's office is another concern that highlights the inadequacy of the rented premises. The fact that official cars have to park on the road due to limited parking space is not only inconvenient but also a security concern.

As you mentioned, the Vice President's office receives a large number of VIPs, including foreign dignitaries, and it's essential to provide a secure and dignified environment for these visitors. The current arrangement, where official cars have to park on the road, may not befit the status of the Vice President's office and may be perceived as a lack of respect for the visiting dignitaries.

A purpose-built office for the Vice President would provide an opportunity to design a secure and dignified environment, including adequate parking facilities, that would reflect the country's values and sovereignty. This would also ensure that the Vice President's office is able to receive visiting dignitaries in a manner that is fitting of the office and the country.

In your opinion, do you think that the current arrangement, where the Vice President's office is located in a rented building with limited parking, reflects poorly on the country's ability to host international events and receive visiting dignitaries?

(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)

Hugging Chat :

It appears you've outlined the advantages of having state-owned banqueting facilities. These advantages include:

Total state control 24/7, which ensures that the premises can be used as needed without any restrictions.
Availability 24/7, which means that the premises can be used at any time, without having to worry about rental agreements or availability.
Saving on rent, which can be a significant cost savings for the state.
Better national status projected towards the international community, which can enhance the country's reputation and prestige.
Better decorum and prestige nationally and internationally, which can reflect positively on the country's values and sovereignty.
Better security, which is essential for hosting high-profile events and receiving visiting dignitaries.
Vast parking, which can accommodate a large number of vehicles, eliminating the need for parking on the road.

It's also interesting that you suggest locating the Vice President's Office nearby the state-owned banqueting facilities. This could create a secure and dignified environment for the Vice President's office, while also providing a convenient and prestigious location for hosting events and receiving visiting dignitaries.

Do you think that the advantages of state-owned banqueting facilities outweigh the costs of building and maintaining such facilities?

(11)

Soman Ragavan :

Whenever the state has to hold a banquet, it must book the facilities of a commercial hotel. It has to work together with the private owners of the facilities. Having State owned banqueting facilities offers many advantages, including instant availability.

(12)

Hugging Chat :

That's a great point. Having to book commercial hotel facilities for state banquets can be limiting and may not always be ideal. By having state-owned banqueting facilities, the government can have instant availability and flexibility to host events at short notice, without having to rely on private owners or commercial hotels.

This can be particularly important for diplomatic events, where timing and protocol are crucial. With state-owned facilities, the government can ensure that events are held in a secure and dignified environment, with complete control over the logistics and arrangements.

Additionally, state-owned banqueting facilities can also provide a sense of national pride and ownership, which can be reflected in the way events are organized and hosted. It can also help to promote a sense of national identity and culture, by showcasing the country's heritage and traditions.

It's also worth noting that state-owned banqueting facilities can be designed and equipped to meet the specific needs of the government, including security, protocol, and logistics. This can ensure that events are held in a way that is consistent with the country's values and standards.

In your opinion, do you think that the lack of state-owned banqueting facilities has limited the government's ability to host high-profile events and receive visiting dignitaries in a manner that is fitting of the country's status?

(13)

Soman Ragavan :

In the circumstances, the State had to do with the facilities that exist on the premises it rented out. In some cases, the State perhaps has to rent out the ENTIRE premises, for security reasons. Existing clients must be carted off to some other place or their existing booking transferred to somewhere else...

My suggestions are in two parts : (a) State-owned facilities for the office of the Vice President; (b) a new State-owned banqueting/exhibition centre

(14)

Hugging Chat :

It sounds like the current arrangement is not ideal, and the State has to make do with the existing facilities on the rented premises. And in some cases, the State may have to rent out the entire premises for security reasons, which can be inconvenient for existing clients.

It's not just a matter of finding alternative arrangements for the Vice President's office, but also considering the impact on other users of the premises. The fact that existing clients may have to be relocated or have their bookings transferred elsewhere can be a significant disruption.

This highlights the importance of having a dedicated, state-owned facility that can be designed and equipped to meet the specific needs of the government. This would eliminate the need to rent out premises and relocate existing clients, and would provide a more secure and dignified environment for hosting events and receiving visiting dignitaries.

It's also worth noting that the current arrangement may not be cost-effective in the long run. Renting out premises and relocating existing clients can be expensive and may not provide the best value for taxpayers' money.

In your opinion, do you think that the government should prioritize the construction of a dedicated, state-owned facility for the Vice President's office and banqueting facilities, given the current limitations and disruptions caused by the rented premises?

(15)

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.
Do you recommend that I transmit these writings to top Government officials ?

(16)

Hugging Chat :

(a) Concluding Remarks:

In conclusion, the current arrangement of the Vice President's office being located in a rented building is not only a matter of national pride, but also a reflection of the country's values and sovereignty. The fact that the government has to rent out premises and relocate existing clients can be a significant disruption and may not provide the best value for taxpayers' money. (My note : this second issue is about banqueting facilities).

Mauritius should project an image of a country that values its institutions and is committed to providing a secure and dignified environment for its leaders and visiting dignitaries. A dedicated, state-owned facility for the Vice President's office and banqueting facilities would be a significant step in projecting this image.

The government should prioritize the construction of such a facility, not only for the Vice President's office but also for the country's reputation and national pride.

(b) Recommendation:

I would recommend that you transmit these writings to top Government officials, as it highlights the importance of having a dedicated, state-owned facility for the Vice President's office and banqueting facilities. The current arrangement is not only a matter of national pride, but also a reflection of the country's values and sovereignty.

By sharing your writings, you can bring attention to this important issue and potentially spark a conversation about the need for a dedicated facility. It's essential to ensure that the government is aware of the implications of the current arrangement and the benefits of having a state-owned facility.

Here is a JSON code that represents the recommendation:

```

{

"recommendation": true,

"reason": "to bring attention to the importance of having a dedicated, state-owned facility for the Vice President's office and banqueting facilities",

"benefits": ["national pride", "sovereignty", "security", "dignified environment for leaders and visiting dignitaries"]

}

```

Please note that this is just a representation of the recommendation in JSON format, you should adjust it according to your needs.

Please let me know if you need anything else.

(17)

Soman Ragavan :

Thank you very much. Goodbye for now.

(18)

Hugging Chat :

You're welcome, Soman Ragavan! It was a pleasure assisting you. I hope your concerns about the Vice President's office and banqueting facilities are heard by the top Government officials. If you need any further assistance or have any other questions, feel free to ask.

Goodbye for now, and I wish you all the best in your efforts to bring about positive change to your country's institutions!

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Author: Soman Ragavan (Pseudonym) ( Offline)
Published: September 26th, 2024 00:22
Category: Unclassified
Views: 3