Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mauritius to enhance strategic ties and discuss the sovereignty of Chagos, following U.S. support for Mauritius’ claims against British control. This visit underscores India’s commitment to countering China’s influence in the Indian Ocean alongside bolstering defense collaborations.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Mauritius to discuss enhancing strategic relations, coinciding with recent support expressed by U.S. President Donald Trump for a territorial arrangement between Mauritius and Britain regarding the U.S.-British military base in the Chagos Archipelago. Modi will also serve as the chief guest during Mauritius’ national day celebrations where discussions with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who has recently returned to power, will take place.
Last month, President Trump announced backing for a deal concerning the future of the military installation on Diego Garcia, the most significant island in the Chagos Archipelago, which has been a joint U.S.-British base since the 1970s. Indian officials indicated that the resolution of Chagos’ sovereignty aligns positively with India’s historical support for Mauritius’ claims and hints at its acceptance of the U.S. presence to counterbalance Chinese influence in the region.
Vikram Misri, India’s foreign secretary, stated that during Modi’s visit, Mauritius might provide updates on any ongoing issues related to the sovereignty discussions. India is committed to assisting Mauritius in achieving a favorable outcome. Mauritius, independent since 1968, has contested the British retention of the Chagos Islands, which included the forced displacement of inhabitants for the establishment of the military base leased to the United States in 1966.
Security expert Samuel Bashfield noted the strategic importance of maintaining the U.S. presence on Diego Garcia as it serves as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence. Concurrently, India has actively helped Mauritius enhance its connectivity through development projects on Agalega Islands, reinforcing its diplomatic and strategic foothold in the Indian Ocean region.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to Mauritius emphasizes the strengthening of bilateral ties amidst changing geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean. The backing of Mauritius’ sovereignty claims by influential powers including the U.S. aligns with India’s strategic interests to curb China’s influence in the region. This visit not only reflects India’s commitment to its historical ally but also contributes to regional security and cooperation.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
