India Supports Mauritius in Chagos Islands Sovereignty Negotiations

India has expressed its support for Mauritius in negotiations with the UK over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, amidst Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri indicated that both nations may be nearing a mutually acceptable agreement while acknowledging the new government’s call for further discussions on the deal established by the previous administration.

India has reaffirmed its support for Mauritius in its pursuit of a fruitful agreement with the United Kingdom regarding the Chagos Islands, situated in the Indian Ocean. This announcement comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Mauritius on March 11 and 12. The matter will likely be a topic of discussion between Prime Minister Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam.

During a recent media briefing, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveyed that Mauritius and the UK may have reached a mutually agreeable arrangement concerning Chagos. In October of the previous year, the UK expressed its intention to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands back to Mauritius, concluding a protracted period of administration exceeding fifty years.

The agreement, achieved during the administration of former Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, stipulates the UK’s relinquishment of sovereignty while retaining a 99-year lease on the military airbase located at Diego Garcia. However, following changes in the Mauritian government led by Prime Minister Ramgoolam, there has been a call for renewed discussions with the UK regarding the islands’ status.

“We have supported Mauritius in its stance on its sovereignty over Chagos, and this is obviously in keeping with our longstanding position with regard to decolonization and support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries,” remarked Misri in his address. He emphasized the importance of articulating this support for partners like Mauritius while acknowledging the current government’s concerns about certain aspects of the existing deal.

Despite these re-evaluations, Misri noted ongoing discussions between Mauritius and the UK, stating that both parties have engaged thoroughly and may have arrived at a satisfactory resolution on the issue.

In summary, India is actively supporting Mauritius in its negotiations with the UK over the Chagos Islands, reflecting its commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity. This matter is set to be a significant topic during Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius, indicating the importance of diplomatic relations. The evolving situation demonstrates ongoing dialogues aimed at reaching a mutually beneficial solution regarding the Chagos Islands.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com