Mauritius Gains Control of Chagos Archipelago, India’s Role Considered Significant
The Chagos Archipelago, located 1,700 kilometres away from India’s maritime border in the Indian Ocean, will now be an integral part of Mauritius’ territory. The Chagos Islands hold strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region and are considered a crucial geopolitical asset.
This development comes after a historic agreement between Britain and Mauritius, which was signed on October 3, 2024. As a result, Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago, will continue to house a British-American military base until 2099. India played a pivotal role in facilitating this agreement and resolving the long-standing dispute.
The Diego Garcia base, established during the Cold War era, has been a contentious issue between Britain and Mauritius. Although Mauritius gained independence in 1968, Britain retained control over the Chagos Archipelago, which led to disputes between the two countries. The resolution of this 50-year-old conflict is being seen as a diplomatic success for all parties involved, with India’s support proving instrumental in the negotiations.
India’s Support for Mauritius
India’s backing of Mauritius at the United Nations and other global forums was crucial in achieving this outcome. Indian officials stated that the country’s consistent support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago helped build consensus.
India has long advocated for the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and has encouraged both parties to engage in constructive discussions. The successful resolution of this conflict will strengthen regional security in the Indian Ocean and contribute to the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.
Strategic Importance of Chagos Archipelago
The Chagos Archipelago is situated 2,200 kilometres from Mauritius’ main landmass and 1,700 kilometres from India’s southern coast. The control over these islands allows Mauritius to enhance its strategic presence in the Indian Ocean. Diego Garcia, where the British-American military base is located, has been a significant naval and air force base for operations in the region.
This agreement will enable Mauritius to further strengthen its sovereignty and leverage the islands for economic development, while maintaining its strategic partnership with the US and Britain.
Geopolitical Implications
The transfer of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius is being seen as a significant geopolitical shift in the Indian Ocean region. The move will bolster Mauritius’ standing in regional affairs and contribute to the collective security of the Indo-Pacific.
Britain’s decision to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while retaining the Diego Garcia military base, reflects a new era of collaboration and mutual respect between the two countries. It also reaffirms India’s role as a stabilizing force in the region, promoting peace and security.
With this development, Mauritius is expected to play a more active role in regional forums and strengthen its defence and security capabilities with the support of its allies. The successful resolution of the Chagos dispute is a testament to India’s diplomatic influence and its commitment to regional stability.
