Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mauritius to enhance strategic ties and discuss the Chagos sovereignty issue, following U.S. support for a deal between Mauritius and Britain on the military base. His discussions with Prime Minister Ramgoolam will focus on mutual interests and regional security, particularly in countering China’s influence. The visit is a strategic move for India, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Mauritius and maintaining U.S. presence in the Indian Ocean.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India will visit Mauritius to enhance strategic relations, coinciding with discussions on the sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago. This visit comes shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for a resolution between Mauritius and Britain regarding the U.S.-British military base located in the archipelago. Modi will be the chief guest at Mauritius’ national day and will meet with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who has resumed office.
The Chagos Archipelago consists of seven atolls in the Indian Ocean, with Diego Garcia serving as a key military base since the 1970s. Historically, India has supported Mauritius’ claims over these islands, especially as U.S. presence in the region helps mitigate China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean. According to India’s foreign secretary, Modi’s visit is an opportunity for Mauritius to address any outstanding sovereignty issues and to discuss mutual interests.
While Mauritius gained independence in 1968, the UK retained control of Chagos, displacing nearly 2,000 islanders for the establishment of the Diego Garcia base leased to the U.S. India is interested in maintaining a U.S. military presence there, which serves as a strategic counterbalance to China’s expansion in the region. Experts suggest that Diego Garcia could facilitate Indian military operations, particularly with surveillance aircraft.
The ties between India and Mauritius have grown closer as Mauritius acknowledges shared goals with the U.S. and India in countering Chinese influence. Recent investments by China in infrastructure throughout the Indian Ocean highlight the ongoing competition for regional dominance.
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius is significant for enhancing India’s strategic alliances and reaffirming support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. The discussions reflect increasing cooperation among India, Mauritius, and the U.S. to address regional security challenges, particularly concerning China’s influence. With ongoing developments in the Indian Ocean, this visit represents a pivotal moment in fostering security and diplomatic relationships.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
