India pledges support for Mauritius in Chagos Islands negotiations with the UK ahead of PM Modi’s visit. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri indicated a possible agreement between Mauritius and the UK, reaffirming India’s position on sovereignty and territorial integrity.
India has reaffirmed its support for Mauritius regarding negotiations with the United Kingdom about the Chagos Islands, just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Mauritius on March 11 and 12. This matter is expected to be discussed between Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, as reported by news agency PTI.
During a media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveyed that Mauritius and the UK may have reached a mutually agreeable deal on the Chagos Islands. In October, the UK announced plans to transfer sovereignty over the islands back to Mauritius, which had been under UK control for over fifty years as part of a historic agreement. This agreement stipulated a 99-year lease of Diego Garcia, the largest island and home to a UK-US military base.
Ramgoolam’s new government has expressed a desire to renegotiate the deal, seeking further discussions with the UK. Misri clarified, “We have supported Mauritius in its stance on its sovereignty over Chagos… it is fitting for us to articulate this support for partners such as Mauritius.”
Misri acknowledged that the Mauritian government is reassessing some of the provisions of the Chagos deal, noting ongoing discussions between Mauritius and the UK that might lead to a mutually acceptable solution.
The article highlights India’s reaffirmation of support for Mauritius ahead of PM Modi’s visit, specifically regarding the Chagos Islands negotiations with the UK. The Indian government’s stance aligns with its broader policy on decolonization and territorial integrity. As Mauritius seeks to renegotiate the agreement with the UK, the emphasis on sovereignty remains a crucial aspect of the discussions with potential developments forthcoming.
Original Source: swarajyamag.com
