India played a quiet but important background role in the handover of sovereignty of the Chagos Islands by Britain to Mauritius. Sources said India has strongly and consistently supported the need to remove the last vestiges of colonialism.
The role of New Delhi was mentioned in the joint statement of Britain and Mauritius.
“In reaching today’s political agreement, we have the full support and assistance of our close allies, the United States and the Republic of India,” the joint statement said.
India has consistently encouraged both sides to hold talks “with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes”, the sources said.
The end result is believed to be “a win-win for all parties involved and will strengthen long-term security in the Indian Ocean region,” the sources said.
In its message welcoming the agreement, New Delhi said, “India has consistently supported Mauritius’ claim to sovereignty over Chagos, consistent with its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nations as well as its long-standing and close partnership But it is in line with our principled stance.” With Mauritius’.
Britain has been under pressure for decades to hand over Chagos. In February 2019, the International Court of Justice declared British control of the Chagos Islands illegal. Three months later, the United Nations overwhelmingly supported a resolution demanding that Britain give up control of the Chagos Islands.
However, Britain had objected, citing the Diego Garcia base, a major installation used to support US operations in the Indian Ocean and Gulf regions.
Today’s move comes after two years of negotiations, which were conducted respectfully by the two countries as equal sovereign states. The political settlement is subject to the finalization of a treaty and supporting legal instruments, which both parties have committed to completing as soon as possible.
Over the past decade, New Delhi has focused its maritime strategy in the Indian Ocean to counter China’s growing influence. Particular attention is being paid to Mauritius, which holds the key to the south-west Indian Ocean and is also the entry point to the Atlantic Ocean.
India is also farming in other countries at key points in the Indian Ocean – the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Malacca and southern Africa. Efforts are also being made to expand relations on various fronts with Madagascar, Mozambique and Seychelles.
