India Reaffirms Support for Mauritius in Chagos Negotiations Ahead of Modi’s Visit

Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, India has reaffirmed its support for Mauritius in negotiations with the UK over the Chagos Islands. During a media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri indicated potential progress in talks between Mauritius and the UK regarding the Chagos issue, originally solidified under former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth. Moreover, the new government seeks to renegotiate terms of the deal.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius, India has formally reiterated its support for Mauritius in the negotiations concerning the Chagos Islands with the United Kingdom. This subject is expected to be a focal point of discussions between PM Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam during Modi’s two-day visit on March 11 and 12.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri provided insight during a media briefing, suggesting that Mauritius and the UK may have reached a mutually satisfactory arrangement regarding the Chagos Islands. Notably, the UK announced last October its decision to transfer sovereignty over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after over fifty years of a historical agreement.

Under the agreement established by former Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, the UK would relinquish sovereignty while retaining a 99-year lease on the military airbase located on Diego Garcia, the largest island of the archipelago. However, the current Mauritian administration, led by Ramgoolam, has expressed a desire to renegotiate certain terms of the deal and has initiated fresh discussions with the UK.

“We have supported Mauritius in its stance on its sovereignty over Chagos, in keeping with our longstanding decolonization principles and our commitment to supporting the territorial integrity of our partners,” Misri stated. He also noted that the new government in Mauritius is re-evaluating some aspects of the existing agreement.

Misri confirmed ongoing discussions between Mauritius and the UK, indicating that both parties have engaged extensively and may have reached a mutually acceptable settlement on the matter.

India has clearly reiterated its support for Mauritius amid negotiations over the Chagos Islands, following a significant decision by the UK to transfer sovereignty. As Prime Minister Modi prepares for his visit, discussions on this matter are anticipated. The evolving political landscape in Mauritius, particularly under Ramgoolam’s leadership, plays a crucial role in these negotiations, showcasing India’s commitment to its partner’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Original Source: swarajyamag.com