PM Modi Reaffirms Support for Mauritius in Chagos Negotiations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed India’s support for Mauritius’ claim over the Chagos Islands during a joint press conference in Mauritius. The visit focused on enhancing cooperation between the two nations amidst regional security concerns. Modi was honored with the Grand Commander award, solidifying India’s partnership with Mauritius and the negotiations concerning the Chagos Archipelago’s military base continue.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s support for the sovereignty of Mauritius over the Chagos Islands amid ongoing negotiations between Mauritius and the United Kingdom. The discussions have been initiated following Mauritius’ call for a renewed treaty concerning the Chagos Archipelago, which is the site of a military base operated by the United States and the United Kingdom.
PM Modi emphasized, “In the context of Chagos, we fully respect the sovereignty of Mauritius,” during a joint press briefing with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. He expressed the importance of a collaborative approach towards ensuring a free, open, secure, and safe Indian Ocean, particularly in light of China’s increasing influence in the region.
Both leaders pledged to enhance cooperation through various platforms such as the Colombo Security Conclave, the Indian Ocean Rim Association, and the Indian Ocean Conference to bolster regional security and collaboration. PM Modi concluded his two-day state visit to Mauritius and returned to Delhi on Thursday.
During his visit, PM Modi affirmed India’s role as a reliable ally to Mauritius in its developmental pursuits, reiterating the commitment of both nations to support the Global South. On March 12, 2025, he served as the chief guest at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, marking the second occasion he has held this honorary role since 2015.
Additionally, PM Modi was conferred with Mauritius’ highest honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, becoming the first Indian recipient of this prestigious award. This accolade further solidifies the historical ties between India and Mauritius.
In related news, former US President Donald Trump previously signaled support for an agreement between Mauritius and Britain regarding the future of the US-British military base located in the Chagos Archipelago, which has been operational since the 1970s on Diego Garcia, the archipelago’s largest island.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius highlights India’s steadfast support for Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, underscoring the bilateral commitment to regional security and development. His honors during the visit and the discussions on cooperation reaffirm India’s role as a trusted partner in the Indian Ocean region. The ongoing negotiations between Mauritius and the UK regarding the military base signify an important step towards resolving longstanding disputes.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
