In a significant step towards enhancing their bilateral relations, India and Mauritius have upgraded their partnership to an ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership,’ with a strong focus on defence and maritime security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Mauritius, reaffirmed India’s support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over Chagos and announced key defence and infrastructure collaborations.
During delegation-level talks with Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, both leaders discussed a wide array of issues, including maritime security, technological collaboration, and regional stability. India emphasized its commitment to strengthening security ties through platforms like the Colombo Security Conclave and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
“Our focus remains on a free, open, secure, and safe Indian Ocean. Prime Minister Ramgoolam and I have agreed to prioritize defence cooperation and maritime security in our strategic partnership,” said Modi. India’s assistance in developing sea and air links on Mauritius’ remote Agalega Islands further underscores its expanding role in the region.
A series of agreements were signed, covering crime investigation, maritime traffic monitoring, infrastructure development, and financial cooperation. India also pledged to help Mauritius construct its new Parliament building, reinforcing the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
India respects Mauritian sovereignty over Chagos
Following their bilateral meeting, Modi expressed India’s support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. This statement came after U.S. President Donald Trump announced last month that he would endorse a deal between Mauritius and Britain regarding the future of the U.S.-British military base located in the Chagos Archipelago, which consists of seven atolls and more than 60 islands in the Indian Ocean.
Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago, has served as a joint British-U.S. military base since the 1970s. Indian officials coordinating Modi’s visit to the island nation stated that the resolution of the Chagos sovereignty issue was a positive development for New Delhi. India has historically supported Mauritius’ claims over the islands and has more recently backed America’s presence in the Indian Ocean to counter China’s influence.
The visit also saw Prime Minister Modi being honoured with Mauritius’ highest civilian award, the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean,’ acknowledging India’s role in Mauritius’ development and security.
Modi’s presence as the Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations symbolized the enduring relationship between the two nations. With India’s continued support in defence modernization, naval capacity-building, and strategic infrastructure, the India-Mauritius partnership is set to reach new heights, reinforcing stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.
Ravi Shankar
