Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Mauritius from December 20-22, 2023, to strengthen bilateral relations following the new government’s formation. The visit underscores India’s commitment under its SAGAR vision and its support for Mauritius’s territorial claims over the Chagos Islands amidst ongoing negotiations with the UK.
The Foreign Secretary of India, Vikram Misri, is scheduled to visit Mauritius from December 20 to 22, 2023, following the establishment of a new government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This visit is viewed as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations, highlighting India’s commitment to its SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision and the “Africa Forward” policy, as articulated by the external affairs ministry.
The timing of this visit marks the first high-level diplomatic engagement between India and Mauritius since the new administration took office in November. The ministry emphasized the historical ties between the two nations and the need to enhance cooperation across various sectors, indicating a mutual interest in advancing bilateral ties.
Additionally, Prime Minister Ramgoolam is engaged in discussions with the United Kingdom regarding the strategic Chagos Islands, previously under British control. He has proposed counterproposals intending to renegotiate the terms related to sovereignty and control of the islands, aiming to secure favorable benefits for Mauritius. This context adds weight to the Foreign Secretary’s visit, as it coincides with significant diplomatic negotiations about Mauritius’s territorial claims.
India has expressed support for Mauritius’s claim over the Chagos Islands, reinforcing its stance on decolonization and the territorial integrity of nations. This continued backing aligns with India’s broader geopolitical interests in the region and demonstrates its commitment to fostering deeper ties with Mauritius.
The context of the article revolves around India’s significant diplomatic relationship with Mauritius, which is underscored by historical ties and mutual interests across various sectors. The arrival of a new government in Mauritius marks a pivotal moment for both nations, allowing for renewed dialogue and cooperation. Additionally, the ongoing negotiations regarding the Chagos Islands and their strategic implications highlight the importance of this bilateral relationship within the framework of regional security and growth. The Foreign Secretary’s upcoming visit is set against the backdrop of these developments, signaling a critical phase in their diplomatic engagement.
In summary, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s forthcoming visit to Mauritius epitomizes India’s dedication to nurturing its ties with the island nation under the SAGAR vision and the “Africa Forward” policy. The engagement marks a notable diplomatic milestone following the formation of Mauritius’s new government and occurs concurrently with significant discussions about the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. This visit is expected to bolster cooperation and affirm India’s support for Mauritius’s territorial claims.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
