Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius aims to enhance strategic ties following U.S. support for a Mauritius-British deal on the Chagos Archipelago. Modi will celebrate Mauritius’s national day and discuss sovereignty issues with Prime Minister Ramgoolam. This step reflects India’s long-standing support for Mauritius in regional matters and its strategic interests against China’s influence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India is scheduled to visit Mauritius on Tuesday to strengthen strategic relations, shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for a potential agreement between Mauritius and Britain concerning the U.S.-British military base in the Chagos Archipelago. Modi will participate as the chief guest in Mauritius’ national day celebrations and engage in discussions with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, marking Ramgoolam’s return for a third term in office since 2024.
In recent statements, President Trump indicated support for a deal concerning the U.S.-British military base’s future in the Chagos Archipelago, which consists of seven atolls and over 60 islands in the Indian Ocean. Diego Garcia, the archipelago’s largest island, has served as a joint military base since the 1970s. Indian officials view the developments regarding Chagos sovereignty positively, as India has consistently championed Mauritius’ claims over the islands while also supporting U.S. military presence in the Indian Ocean to counteract China’s influence.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri remarked on the visit, indicating it would provide an opportunity for Mauritius to address any unresolved issues related to sovereignty discussions. “We continue to support Mauritius in its efforts to reach a mutually satisfactory and mutually beneficial deal,” Misri stated, highlighting India’s endorsement of Mauritius’ stance. Mauritius gained independence in 1968, though Britain maintained control over Chagos and relocated approximately 2,000 inhabitants to establish Diego Garcia military base.
Samuel Bashfield, an expert in Indo-Pacific security, noted that it aligns with India’s interests to sustain the U.S. presence at Diego Garcia to counterbalance China’s regional ambitions. In pursuit of expanding its strategic influence in the Indian Ocean, India has assisted Mauritius in enhancing connections through sea and air services to the Agalega Islands. Bashfield further suggested, “Diego Garcia could be a useful runway for Indian surveillance aircraft in the Indian Ocean to use periodically.”
An official from Prime Minister Ramgoolam’s office commented on Mauritius’ perspective, stating, “Mauritius sees India and the U.S. sharing the same interest of containing the Chinese influence within the region.” China has made significant investments in developing seaports and highways across the area, further increasing its presence from the Maldives to Sri Lanka.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius signifies India’s commitment to reinforcing its strategic partnerships in the Indian Ocean region, particularly concerning sovereignty discussions over the Chagos Archipelago. The support from the United States in this matter is pivotal for both Mauritius and India’s positioning against China’s growing influence across the region. Through enhanced cooperation, India aims to solidify its presence and maintain stability within this strategically important maritime area.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
