New Delhi: The Government of India has officially welcomed the treaty between the United Kingdom and Mauritius concerning the Chagos Archipelago, describing the development as a constructive move toward addressing historical injustices and promoting decolonisation. India reaffirmed its long-standing position in support of Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Islands and praised the spirit of diplomatic engagement that led to the agreement.
The Chagos Archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean, has been the subject of a prolonged territorial dispute between the UK and Mauritius. The islands were separated from Mauritius by the British colonial government in the 1960s, just before the island nation gained independence. The largest island in the group, Diego Garcia, hosts a strategic US military base.
India has consistently supported Mauritius in various international forums, including at the United Nations and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where advisory opinions have favoured Mauritius’ claims. The United Nations General Assembly, in a 2019 resolution backed by India, demanded that the UK withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago and complete the process of decolonisation.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, India reiterated its support for international law and rules-based order. “India welcomes the agreement between the United Kingdom and Mauritius regarding the Chagos Archipelago. We have always stood for the sovereignty of Mauritius and the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and respect for international legal norms,” the statement read.
India also commended both countries for opting for dialogue and negotiations to resolve complex issues that have historical and strategic dimensions. The move is seen by analysts as a step toward reinforcing India’s position on decolonisation and self-determination—principles that have guided its foreign policy since independence.
The treaty is expected to pave the way for a peaceful transfer of administrative control of the Chagos Islands from the UK to Mauritius in a manner consistent with international judgments and mutual agreement. It also opens the door for possible discussions on the future of the US military base, which remains a sensitive topic within the framework of Indo-Pacific security.
India’s support for Mauritius is grounded not only in shared historical ties and cultural connections but also in strategic cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. Both countries are part of initiatives such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and collaborate closely on maritime security, trade, and regional development.
Indian diplomats have emphasised that peaceful resolutions of disputes, such as the Chagos issue, strengthen global trust in multilateral institutions and legal frameworks. The development aligns with India’s broader vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
As the treaty progresses toward implementation, India has expressed confidence that it will contribute to regional peace, strengthen bilateral relations, and uphold the principles of justice and equity in international affairs.
