India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Mauritius from December 20-22 to enhance bilateral ties following the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. The trip highlights India’s commitment to Mauritius under its SAGAR vision and aligns with discussions regarding the Chagos Islands’ sovereignty. Misri’s visit marks a key diplomatic engagement, reflecting the historical ties and cooperation between the two nations.
Vikram Misri, India’s Foreign Secretary, is set to visit Mauritius from December 20-22, following the establishment of a new government under Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This visit underscores the significance India places on its relationship with Mauritius as part of its SAGAR vision, which emphasizes security and growth in the region, in addition to its commitment to the Global South. This event represents the first high-level diplomatic engagement since the new government took office in November, reflecting the enduring historical ties and multi-faceted cooperation between the two nations.
Furthermore, this diplomatic visit occurs against the backdrop of Prime Minister Ramgoolam’s recent submission of counterproposals to the United Kingdom concerning an agreement on the Chagos Islands. In October, the UK announced plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos archipelago to Mauritius, contingent upon the continued operation of a strategic military base in Diego Garcia for approximately 99 years. Prime Minister Ramgoolam indicated that he is reopening negotiations, citing concerns that the current proposal may not yield optimal benefits for his nation, despite maintaining the willingness to reach an agreement with the UK.
India has welcomed the UK’s willingness to cede control over the Chagos Islands, aligning with its longstanding support of Mauritius’ claims of sovereignty in the region. India continues to advocate for the principles of decolonization, as well as the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, emphasizing its commitment to bolstering diplomatic relations with Mauritius during this transitional period.
The diplomatic visit by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Mauritius highlights the strong bilateral relations shaped by shared history and cooperative engagement across various sectors. Following the recent establishment of a new government led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, this visit represents a pivotal moment in reaffirming diplomatic ties. Additionally, it coincides with ongoing discussions regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, a subject of long-standing territorial disputes that involve Britain and Mauritius.
In summary, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Mauritius is emblematic of India’s prioritization of its relationship with the African nation. This visit serves to strengthen bilateral ties amid significant national developments, including ongoing negotiations over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. India’s support for Mauritius’ territorial claims further underscores its commitment to regional stability and cooperation within the framework of its broader geopolitical strategy.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
