Modi’s Visit to Mauritius: A Step Towards Strengthening…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mauritius to enhance strategic ties, coinciding with U.S. support for Mauritius’s sovereignty claims over the Chagos Archipelago. This visit aims to facilitate discussions with Prime Minister Ramgoolam and reinforce diplomatic relations amid growing Chinese influence in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India is set to visit Mauritius for discussions aimed at enhancing strategic ties. His visit coincides with increasing support from the United States regarding negotiations between Mauritius and Britain concerning the Chagos Archipelago’s military base. Modi will also participate as the chief guest during Mauritius’s national day celebrations and engage with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who has recently returned to office.

Last month, U.S. President Trump expressed his backing for an agreement between Mauritius and Britain related to the future of the military operations in the Chagos Archipelago. This territory, which includes the well-known Diego Garcia base, has served as a joint military installation for the U.S. and Britain since the 1970s, despite Mauritius’s claims of sovereignty.

Indian officials have indicated that Modi’s trip is significant for ongoing support of Mauritius’s sovereignty claims, while also balancing relations with the United States in light of China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region. India has actively developed infrastructure in Mauritius, including sea and air connections with the Agalega Islands, to strengthen strategic cooperation.

Experts suggest that India’s backing of U.S. presence on Diego Garcia is strategically beneficial, serving as a counterbalance to China’s activities in the region, particularly as China increases its investments in neighboring countries. A representative from Ramgoolam’s office pointed out that both India and the U.S. share mutual interests in curbing Chinese influence in the area.

In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s impending visit to Mauritius is pivotal for strengthening diplomatic relations and addressing sovereignty disputes regarding the Chagos Archipelago. With the United States indicating support for Mauritius’s claims, India seeks to expand its influence while countering China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean. This cooperation underscores a collaborative effort to enhance regional security and strategic stability.

Original Source: www.usnews.com