Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Mauritius on March 11-12, 2025, as the chief guest at the country’s National Day
celebrations.

Amid this visit, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reaffirmed India’s support for Mauritius’ claim over the Chagos
Archipelago, highlighting India’s commitment to decolonization.

Key Takeaways from the Article

1. The Chagos Archipelago

• A group of seven atolls comprising over 60 islands in the Indian Ocean, located 500 km south of the Maldives.
• Forms the southernmost part of the Chagos-Laccadive Ridge, a submarine mountain range in the Indian Ocean.

Historical Background:

• 1715-1810: Under French control as part of its Indian Ocean territories.
• 1814: France ceded the islands to the United Kingdom under the Treaty of Paris.
• 1965: Three years before Mauritius gained independence, the UK separated Chagos and formed the British Indian
  Ocean Territory (BIOT).
• Diego Garcia, the largest island, has hosted a joint UK-U.S. military base since the 1970s.

2. Negotiations Over Chagos’ Sovereignty

• UK and Mauritius have been in long-standing negotiations over sovereignty.
• In October 2024, the UK announced a treaty that would:
  ✅ Restore Mauritius’ sovereignty over most of the Chagos Archipelago.
  ✅ Allow the UK and the U.S. to retain a strategic military base on Diego Garcia.

3. India-Mauritius Relations: A Brief Overview

• Shared history, demography, and culture make India and Mauritius natural allies.
• 70% of Mauritius’ 1.2 million people are of Indian origin.
• 1948: India established diplomatic relations with Mauritius even before its independence (1968).
• Strong cooperation in:
  ✅ Maritime security
  ✅ Development partnerships
  ✅ Capacity-building
  ✅ International cooperation

India as Mauritius’ First Responder:

Provided aid during COVID-19 and the Wakashio oil spill crisis.

Economic Ties:

• Mauritius is India’s top FDI source: $175 billion has flowed into India since 2000 (25% of total FDI).
• India-Mauritius CECPA: First trade agreement India signed with
  an African nation (April 1, 2021).

4. Significance of PM Modi’s Visit to Mauritius

• First visit to Mauritius since 2015.
• Indian Air Force contingents and an Indian Navy ship will participate
  in Mauritius’ National Day celebrations.
• Several bilateral agreements are expected, boosting strategic and
  economic ties.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s visit underscores India’s commitment to Mauritius and its support for decolonization. The Chagos issue remains a critical
diplomatic concern, reflecting India’s stance on regional stability and \global justice.