Indian Foreign Secretary’s Visit to Mauritius: Strengthening Bilateral Relations After New Government Formation

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Mauritius from December 20 to 22 to bolster bilateral relations following the establishment of a new government. The visit emphasizes India’s commitment to its SAGAR vision and coincides with ongoing negotiations regarding the Chagos Islands’ sovereignty. Prime Minister Ramgoolam has proposed counterproposals to the UK concerning the controversial deal over the islands.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to visit Mauritius from December 20 to 22, signifying a critical step in strengthening bilateral relations between India and the newly formed government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This visit underscores India’s commitment to its SAGAR initiative, emphasizing Security and Growth for All in the Region, alongside its strategic ‘Africa Forward’ policy aimed at enhancing ties with nations in the Global South.

The upcoming trip represents the first high-level communication since the inauguration of the Ramgoolam administration in November. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that India and Mauritius share a longstanding relationship built on historical ties and multifaceted cooperation, reinforcing the importance of this visit to bolster bilateral relations further.

Notably, the visit coincides with ongoing discussions related to the Chagos Islands, which have been a point of contention involving Britain and Mauritius. Ramgoolam has indicated that he has presented counterproposals to the United Kingdom concerning a controversial agreement to regain control of the strategic islands. His administration is keen to engage in negotiations, citing that the current deal would not yield the anticipated advantages for Mauritius.

India has historically supported Mauritius’s sovereignty claims over the Chagos Islands, aligned with its principles on decolonization and national integrity. This context adds a complex layer to Bilateral relations, as the proposed amendments to the sovereignty agreement are still pending finalization under legal frameworks and treaties.

The article addresses Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s forthcoming visit to Mauritius, following the establishment of a new government. The focus is on enhancing bilateral relations between India and Mauritius, highlighting India’s strategic framework under SAGAR, which aims to secure growth and cooperation in the region. The recent political changes in Mauritius, especially concerning the Chagos Islands’ sovereignty, are significant in understanding the diplomatic dynamics and ongoing negotiations between Mauritius and the United Kingdom.

In summary, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s imminent visit to Mauritius marks a pivotal moment in Indo-Mauritian relations, reflecting India’s commitment to strengthening ties under its SAGAR vision. This visit comes as Mauritius navigates complex negotiations regarding the Chagos Islands, with assertions made by Prime Minister Ramgoolam indicating a willingness to pursue a more beneficial agreement with the UK. Overall, the developments suggest a robust diplomatic engagement moving forward.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com