Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Mauritius, where he is expected to support the country’s sovereignty claim over the disputed Chagos archipelago and strengthen maritime security cooperation.
Modi was welcomed on Tuesday by Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and is scheduled to attend the country’s National Day celebrations in Port Louis on March 12 as the chief guest. A contingent of the Indian military and a naval ship will also participate in the event.
India’s foreign ministry stated that Modi will discuss the Chagos dispute and reaffirm India’s continued support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the islands.
The Chagos archipelago, part of the British Indian Ocean Territory, consists of over 60 islands. One of them, Diego Garcia, is a key strategic military base operated by the US. Mauritius has long claimed sovereignty over the islands, which the UK retained control of when Mauritius gained independence in 1968.
India sees Mauritius as a crucial partner in countering China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region. Modi’s visit is expected to result in several agreements, including those focused on capacity building, trade, and tackling cross-border financial crimes. A Memorandum of Understanding on maritime security cooperation is also set to be signed.
“This visit is a wonderful opportunity to engage with a valued friend and explore new avenues for collaboration in various sectors,” Modi stated on X. “My visit will further strengthen the foundations of our friendship and build a brighter chapter in India-Mauritius ties.”
