India affirms support for Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands dispute with the UK, ahead of PM Modi’s visit. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri indicated potential progress in negotiations between Mauritius and the UK, following a historical agreement to return sovereignty. The new Mauritian government seeks to revise terms, maintaining dialogue with the UK.
India has expressed its full support for Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands dispute with the United Kingdom. This declaration coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius on March 11 and 12, when discussions are anticipated to involve this significant topic with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam.
During a media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri suggested that Mauritius and the UK may have reached a mutually agreeable deal concerning the Chagos Islands, following the UK’s announcement last October to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius after over fifty years. The historic agreement allows the UK to retain a 99-year lease on the Diego Garcia military airbase.
However, the current Mauritian government, under Prime Minister Ramgoolam, has requested a reassessment of the agreement’s provisions. Misri reaffirmed, “We have supported Mauritius in its stance on its sovereignty over Chagos, and this is obviously in keeping with our long-standing position with regard to decolonisation.”
Misri underscored the importance of articulating India’s support for Mauritius, viewing it as essential in upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations. He noted ongoing discussions between Mauritius and the UK, indicating positive developments towards an acceptable resolution.
In summary, India has reiterated its support for Mauritius in the matter of the Chagos Islands, coinciding with Prime Minister Modi’s visit. The possibility of a favorable resolution appears on the horizon following the UK’s commitment to return sovereignty, although the new Mauritian government seeks to reassess the agreement. Diplomatic dialogues between Mauritius and the UK remain active as both parties pursue a mutually beneficial outcome.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
