India’s Foreign Secretary to Strengthen Ties During Visit to Mauritius

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Mauritius from December 20 to 22, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties following the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. The visit coincides with ongoing discussions regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands and reflects India’s commitment to its SAGAR vision and support for Mauritius’s territorial claims.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to visit Mauritius from December 20 to December 22, following the establishment of a new government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Mauritius, grounded in the principles of the SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the “Africa Forward” policy. The engagement represents a significant opportunity to enhance cooperation, particularly as it marks the first high-level discussion since the new government’s inauguration in November.

The timing of the visit is pertinent, as discussions surrounding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands continue. Prime Minister Ramgoolam has recently presented counterproposals to the United Kingdom regarding a historic agreement for the transfer of control over these strategic islands. The UK had previously indicated its willingness to cede sovereignty to Mauritius under certain conditions, including the maintenance of a critical military base by the UK and the US on Diego Garcia. This base is pivotal for military operations across West and South Asia and East Africa, housing approximately 2,500 US personnel.

India has publicly supported Mauritius’s claims over the Chagos Islands, aligning with its long-standing position on decolonization and respect for national sovereignty. The potential agreement involving the Chagos Islands remains conditional upon the finalization of a treaty and related legal frameworks. As such, Foreign Secretary Misri’s visit will play a vital role in navigating these complex diplomatic waters and fostering deeper ties between the two nations.

The relationship between India and Mauritius is deeply rooted in shared historical ties and extensive cooperation across various sectors. The SAGAR initiative highlights India’s commitment to maritime security and growth in the Indian Ocean region, while the “Africa Forward” policy outlines India’s strategic engagement with African nations. The ongoing negotiations concerning the Chagos Islands further complicate this relationship, as they touch upon issues of sovereignty, colonial legacy, and strategic military interests. The international community, particularly India, has shown support for Mauritius’s rightful claims on these islands amidst broader geopolitical dynamics in the region.

In conclusion, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s upcoming visit to Mauritius represents a key moment for Indian-Mauritian relations. It not only emphasizes India’s commitment to enhancing bilateral ties in light of the recent government transition but also highlights the ongoing negotiations concerning the Chagos Islands. Through this engagement, India reaffirms its support for Mauritius, promoting regional stability and collaboration under the auspices of its SAGAR vision and respect for sovereignty.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com