Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Mauritius from December 20 to 22 to strengthen bilateral ties after the recent formation of a new government. This visit aligns with India’s SAGAR vision and underscores its commitment to the Global South. Moreover, it coincides with ongoing negotiations regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. The engagement highlights India’s support for Mauritius’s claims and aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to visit Mauritius from December 20 to December 22 as part of India’s efforts to strengthen bilateral relations following the establishment of a new government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This trip underscores India’s commitment to its SAGAR vision, the “Africa Forward” policy, and a sustained dedication to fostering cooperation with the Global South. The visit represents a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations after Ramgoolam’s government formed in November. Furthermore, the dialogue will advance longstanding ties between India and Mauritius, characterized by shared history and multifaceted collaboration across various sectors.
The backdrop of this visit includes a critical negotiation concerning the strategic Chagos Islands. Prime Minister Ramgoolam has shared that he submitted counterproposals to the United Kingdom regarding a recent deal that would transfer control of these islands to Mauritius. The agreement stipulates that the UK and the United States maintain a military presence on Diego Garcia, the most significant island in the archipelago, for no less than 99 years. Ramgoolam aims to reopen discussions because he believes the existing terms would not provide Mauritius with the expected benefits.
India has expressed support for Mauritius’s longstanding claim to sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, aligning with its advocacy for decolonization and upholding the territorial integrity of nations. In October, India welcomed the UK’s announcement to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius, signaling a potential resolution to this enduring territorial dispute. This visit by Foreign Secretary Misri is poised to further consolidate these diplomatic efforts, further enhancing India-Mauritius relations.
The relationship between India and Mauritius is deeply rooted in a shared history and a commitment to cooperation across multiple sectors. The recent political changes in Mauritius, with the election of Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, have provided an opportunity for India to reinforce its bilateral ties. The upcoming visit by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is particularly significant following India’s endorsement of the transfer of Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a point of contention affecting both nations. The strategic implications of the Chagos Islands, especially Diego Garcia’s military base, highlight the geopolitical stakes in these discussions, making this visit timely and crucial for both countries.
In summary, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Mauritius is a strategic initiative to bolster India-Mauritius relations following the recent government transition. The discussions will center on deepening bilateral ties and addressing the critical issue of sovereignty over the Chagos Islands. India’s continued support for Mauritius’s claims emphasizes its commitment to fostering strong ties within the Global South and its advocacy for decolonization. This engagement is expected to pave the way for a productive diplomatic relationship moving forward.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
