India Welcomes Historic Chagos Islands Treaty Agreement

India has warmly welcomed the signing of the Chagos Islands treaty, viewing it as a landmark achievement in resolving a protracted dispute that has lasted for decades. The formal agreement to settle this long-standing issue is seen as a significant milestone and a positive step toward enhancing regional stability in the Indian Ocean area.

The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the importance of the treaty, emphasizing that it marks the culmination of Mauritius's decolonisation process in accordance with the principles of international law and the global rules-based order. This agreement represents not just the resolution of a territorial dispute but also the reinforcement of international norms related to sovereignty, self-determination, and decolonisation.

India expressed its strong support for Mauritius in this process and reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Mauritius and other like-minded countries to promote maritime security and maintain regional stability. The government underlined that such cooperation is essential for ensuring peace and prosperity across the Indian Ocean region, which holds immense strategic, economic, and geopolitical importance for India and its partners.

The Chagos Islands dispute originated in the mid-20th century when the British government separated the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius prior to granting Mauritius independence. The islands were subsequently leased to the United States for military purposes, including the establishment of a significant military base on Diego Garcia. Mauritius has long contested this separation, arguing that it was unlawful and violated the rights of its people and sovereignty.

The recent treaty, signed by the involved parties, signals a formal resolution to this dispute and aligns with the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion and the United Nations General Assembly’s resolutions that called for the decolonisation of Mauritius, including the Chagos Archipelago. The treaty not only restores Mauritian sovereignty over the islands but also ensures the protection of the marine environment and supports sustainable development.

India views this development as part of a broader commitment to uphold international law and foster a stable and peaceful regional order. By supporting Mauritius, India seeks to strengthen partnerships in the Indian Ocean region and contribute to a rules-based maritime order that benefits all countries in the region.

Moreover, India’s engagement with Mauritius and other regional players highlights its proactive foreign policy approach focused on collaboration and mutual respect. India aims to deepen strategic ties that can counterbalance external influences and promote shared security interests in the Indian Ocean, which is vital for global trade and energy routes.

In summary, India’s welcoming of the Chagos Islands treaty reflects its commitment to international law, regional stability, and cooperation. The resolution of the Chagos dispute marks a new chapter for Mauritius and the Indian Ocean region, with India playing a constructive role in supporting peace, security, and sustainable development. This milestone not only advances the cause of decolonisation but also strengthens regional unity and the prospects for a peaceful, prosperous future in the strategically critical Indian Ocean area.