Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Mauritius to strengthen strategic ties, coinciding with U.S. President Trump’s support for a deal concerning the Chagos Archipelago. Modi’s discussions with Mauritian Prime Minister Ramgoolam will focus on security cooperation and addressing sovereignty issues, vital for India’s regional interests against China. The visit highlights India’s commitment to fostering close relations with Mauritius in light of changing geopolitical dynamics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India is set to visit Mauritius for discussions aimed at enhancing strategic relations. This visit comes shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for an agreement between Mauritius and Britain regarding the future of a U.S.-British military base on the Chagos Archipelago.
During his trip, Modi will participate in Mauritius’s national day celebrations and engage in talks with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who has returned to office for a third term. Trump’s endorsement of the agreement is significant as it pertains to the future of the Diego Garcia military base, which has been operational since the 1970s.
Indian officials have indicated that resolving the Chagos sovereignty issue is beneficial for India, which has historically supported Mauritius’s claims over the islands and has also aligned with U.S. efforts to curb Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the possibility for Mauritius to provide updates on outstanding issues during Modi’s visit, reiterating India’s backing for a mutually beneficial agreement. Mauritius gained independence in 1968 while the UK maintained control over the Chagos Archipelago, relocating approximately 2,000 residents for the military base.
Experts suggest it is crucial for India to ensure U.S. military presence at Diego Garcia as a strategic move against China. India has also assisted Mauritius in enhancing its maritime and aviation connections, particularly in Agalega. Observers note that Diego Garcia could serve as a strategic site for Indian surveillance operations in the region, especially in light of China’s substantial investments in regional infrastructure.
This visit symbolizes India’s commitment to deepen its ties with Mauritius while also strengthening regional stability against external influences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius signifies a pivotal moment in Indo-Mauritian ties, particularly amidst rising Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean. With India’s historical support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, the discussions are expected to address critical security alignments and cooperative strategies to maintain regional stability. This visit underscores India’s strategic interests in counterbalancing China and fostering collaborative defense and development initiatives with Mauritius.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
