Congress president Sonia Gandhi leaves early Sunday on a two-day visit to Mauritius, during which she will inaugurate the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre in capital Port Louis.

The visit is at the invitation of Mauritius Prime Minister Paul Raymond Berenger.

The centre, the result of a joint effort by the two countries, is expected to meet the long standing need of propagating non-formal science education in the island nation and to create a scientific temper among its people.

The centre would house innovative and interactive exhibits, displays and models to enhance public understanding of science and spread scientific awareness.

Gandhi had laid its foundation stone in 1995.

During her stay, Gandhi would call on Mauritius President Anerood Jugnauth and the prime minister. She would also attend a lunch hosted by the president and a banquet hosted in her honour by Berenger. She also is scheduled to meet Leader of Opposition Navin Ramgoolam.

Gandhi, the chairperson of India's ruling United Progressive Alliance, would pay floral tributes at the memorial to Seewosagur Ramgoolam, regarded as the father of the island nation.

The visit is being seen as yet another step to intensify the close bonds between the two countries. It follows a series of high-level trips from both sides in recent times, including Berenger's visit to India in November 2003.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is also expected to visit the country next month.

--Indo-Asian News Service