Behind the scenes: India’s quiet diplomacy in UK’s return of Chagos Islands to Mauritius | India Information

Gas tanks on the fringe of a miltary airstrip on Diego Garcia, largest island within the Chagos archipelago. (Reuters Picture)

NEW DELHI: India performed a quiet but important contribution within the historic switch of the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands from the UK to Mauritius. In line with ANI sources, India had steadfastly and unwaveringly advocated for “the necessity to dispose of the final vestiges of colonisation” throughout the negotiations.
The joint assertion launched by UK and Mauritius additionally acknowledged New Delhi’s involvement within the matter.The assertion particularly talked about, “In reaching as we speak’s political settlement, now we have loved the total help and help of our shut companions, the USA of America and the Republic of India.”
In a historic determination, UK determined to surrender sovereignty of the distant islands to Mauritius ending many years of usually fractious negotiations between the 2 international locations.
“India performed a quiet however necessary function within the background. It firmly backed the principled Mauritian place, supporting its stance on the necessity to dispose of the final vestiges of decolonisation. On the similar time, it constantly inspired each side to barter with an open thoughts and with a view to attaining mutually helpful outcomes,” sources stated.
“It’s believed that the ultimate end result is a win for all sides concerned and can reinforce long-term safety within the Indian Ocean area,” it added.
Quickly after the announcement, India welcomed the historic settlement between the UK and Mauritius and stated that the decision of the longstanding Chagos dispute was a “welcome improvement”.
“We welcome the settlement between the UK and Mauritius on the return of Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago, together with Diego Garcia. This important understanding completes the decolonisation of Mauritius. The decision of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with worldwide legislation, is a welcome improvement,” the Indian authorities stated in a press assertion launched by the ministry of exterior affairs.
“India has constantly supported Mauritius’s declare for sovereignty over Chagos, in keeping with its principled stand on decolonisation and help for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries, in addition to its longstanding and shut partnership with Mauritius. India stays dedicated to working with Mauritius and different like-minded companions in strengthening maritime security and safety and contributing to enhanced peace and prosperity within the Indian Ocean area,” it added