Mauritius is negotiating with the UK to reassess terms regarding the Chagos Archipelago and restore sovereignty. Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful emphasizes the importance of a conclusive deal that benefits India and the US. The historical context of the dispute and the upcoming general elections in Mauritius are significant factors in these discussions. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Mauritius signifies ongoing diplomatic efforts around this issue, with a focus on regional security and trade.
Negotiations between Mauritius and the United Kingdom regarding the contentious Chagos Archipelago are currently ongoing. The newly elected Mauritian government, led by Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful, is advocating for reassessment of the deal concerning sovereignty over the territory. Ramful expressed the desire for a conclusive agreement beneficial to all parties involved, including India and the United States.
Ramful emphasized the significance of reaching a settlement that would provide stability and clarity, particularly referencing the operational status of the Diego Garcia military base. The discussions are taking place in the context of the upcoming Mauritian general elections, scheduled for November 2024, with the new administration keen to redefine the terms of any agreement.
Ramful highlighted the historical struggle for sovereignty over Chagos and welcomed the UK’s willingness to enter negotiations. He noted that India plays a vital role in supporting Mauritius’s efforts to reclaim its sovereignty, stemming from shared interests in maintaining security in the Indian Ocean region.
The Chagos dispute originated in the 1960s when the UK separated the archipelago from Mauritius to establish the British Indian Ocean Territory. With upcoming bilateral talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, the Chagos issue is anticipated to be a key topic.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that the discussions will allow Mauritius to provide updates regarding the outstanding issues, reinforcing India’s supportive stance towards Mauritius’s pursuit of a favorable resolution to the matter. Additionally, Ramful reiterated the importance of security in the Indian Ocean, a crucial trade route, in context to upcoming collaborative efforts between Mauritius and India towards enhancing maritime security.
The negotiations between Mauritius and the United Kingdom on the Chagos Archipelago are crucial for restoring sovereignty and ensuring regional security. With significant involvement from India, these discussions reflect broader geopolitical interests in the Indian Ocean. The collaboration between Mauritius and India highlights a commitment to shared security priorities, with future agreements aiming to enhance maritime safety and stability in the region.
Original Source: news.abplive.com
