India Stands Firm on Chagos Support, Strengthens Ties with Mauritius

India reaffirmed its support to Mauritius on the Chagos Archipelago issue, reinforcing ties between the two nations. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed India's stance during a two-day visit, emphasizing decolonization, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Mauritius' leaders reciprocated, appreciating India's consistent backing amidst historical and strategic connections.

India on Tuesday reaffirmed its support for Mauritius concerning the Chagos Archipelago issue, a move quickly appreciated by the island nation in the Indian Ocean.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, on a two-day visit to Mauritius to strengthen bilateral ties, conveyed India's explicit public support for Mauritius' claim over the Chagos Archipelago. Jaishankar assured Mauritius' Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth of India's consistent support on decolonization and the sovereignty of nations.

Mauritius' Foreign Minister Maneesh Gobin expressed deep gratitude towards India for this reaffirmation, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties binding the two countries. The Chagos Archipelago, part of Mauritius since the 18th century, has been subjected to international disputes, with a notable 2019 UNGA resolution demanding the UK's withdrawal from the territory, yet to be implemented. Human Rights Watch recently spotlighted past forcible relocations of Chagossians for a US-UK military base.