India Reaffirms Support for Mauritian Sovereignty Over Chagos Ahead of PM Modi's Visit

New Delhi, March 8 (NationPress) On Saturday, India reaffirmed its unwavering support for Mauritius in reclaiming its sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, aligning with its steadfast stance on decolonization and the respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, in addition to its enduring partnership with Mauritius.

“We have consistently backed Mauritius in its claim over Chagos and this clearly reflects our long-held viewpoint regarding decolonization and our commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations. It is only appropriate for us to express this support for our partners such as Mauritius,” stated Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to reporters in New Delhi prior to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming State Visit to Mauritius next week.

Last October, India welcomed the agreement between the United Kingdom and Mauritius concerning the restoration of Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia, underscoring that the treaty fulfills the decolonization process of Mauritius.

The agreement implies that Mauritius will regain sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) of Chagos Archipelago, with the UK permitted to exercise sovereign rights of Mauritius on Diego Garcia.

“Naturally, after a new government assumed power in Mauritius, they have re-evaluated some provisions. Nonetheless, this issue continues to be discussed between Mauritius and the UK. We understand that they have been engaging with each other extensively and may have reached a mutually acceptable agreement on the matter,” Misri asserted, emphasizing that India remains supportive of Mauritius. He noted that there might be an opportunity for the current Mauritian leadership to brief India during PM Modi's visit about any outstanding issues.

PM Modi is scheduled to arrive in Mauritius on March 11 for a two-day State Visit at the invitation of Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. He will participate in the National Day celebrations of Mauritius on March 12 as the Chief Guest. A contingent of the Indian Defence Forces, including the Indian Air Force's Akash Ganga skydiving team, will also join the celebrations along with a ship from the Indian Navy. This will be Modi's first visit to Mauritius since 2015.

Emphasizing that India-Mauritius relations are deeply rooted in a shared history, culture, and a robust people-to-people connection spanning several centuries, the Foreign Secretary noted that PM Modi will arrive in Port Louis early on March 11 and will receive a ceremonial welcome upon arrival.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will meet with the President of Mauritius, engage with the Prime Minister, and hold discussions with senior officials and leaders of political parties in Mauritius. He will also connect with members of the Indian-origin community and inaugurate the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre, both constructed with India's grant assistance. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed during this visit.

“We have previously supplied Mauritius with the Coast Guard Ship (CGS) Barracuda through a combination of grant and loan assistance. In addition, we have provided another platform, the CGS Victory, along with several fast interceptor crafts through a soft loan. I believe we have consistently supported Mauritius with these assets, and if further assistance is required, we are open to considering such proposals as well,” concluded Misri.