The Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean has become a focal point of strategic attention, with the United States, Mauritius, and now India closely monitoring developments. The largest island, Diego Garcia, hosts a US military base, while sovereignty over the archipelago has been formally transferred to Mauritius, much to America’s displeasure.
US-Mauritius Security Talks
The US plans to send a delegation to Mauritius on 24–25 February to discuss a proposed US-Mauritius security partnership and enhance cooperation in the Western Indian Ocean. The US remains concerned about sovereignty arrangements around Diego Garcia under the UK-Mauritius agreement. India, too, is keeping a close watch on the unfolding situation. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Mauritian Prime Minister Dr. Naveenchandra Ramgoolam, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership and promoting peace and stability in the Indian Ocean.
Chagos Archipelago: A Strategic Hotspot
Diego Garcia is one of around 60 islands that form the Chagos Archipelago, also known as the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT). The islands were separated from Mauritius by the UK in 1965, three years before Mauritius gained independence. The region lies roughly midway between East Africa and Indonesia.
Former US President Donald Trump recently called Britain’s 2025 decision to transfer sovereignty over Chagos to Mauritius “grossly foolish.” Under the 2025 UK-Mauritius agreement, the UK retains the right to lease Diego Garcia for 99 years at a cost exceeding $100 million annually, ensuring continued US military presence.
India’s Support to Mauritius
India has consistently supported Mauritius on the Chagos issue. During last year’s bilateral meetings, India offered assistance in surveying Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which now includes the Chagos Archipelago. The Mauritian EEZ spans roughly 2.3 million sq km, with a small coast guard operating fewer than a dozen patrol vessels. India and Mauritius have renewed agreements for hydrographic surveys within the EEZ, with India providing technical and logistical support.
Symbolic Gesture: Indian Ship to Hoist Mauritian Flag
Mauritius will use an Indian ship to hoist its flag in the Chagos Archipelago, a move symbolically significant as a message to the UK. India has historically supported Mauritius’ anti-colonial efforts, and this step reinforces India-Mauritius strategic ties.
Strategic Monitoring and Regional Interests
With strong defense relations with Mauritius, India will help monitor the Chagos Marine Protected Area. Analysts note that this allows India to track not only growing Chinese interests in the region but also the continued UK presence in the southwestern Indian Ocean. India is also aiding in the redevelopment of Port Louis, Mauritius’ capital.
International Court Ruling and UK Compliance
Historically, the Chagos Archipelago was part of Mauritius. In 1965, the UK separated it before Mauritius gained independence and leased Diego Garcia to the US for a military base. In 2019, the International Court of Justice ruled that the UK’s control over the archipelago was illegal and that sovereignty should revert to Mauritius. Following this, the UK agreed in October 2024 to return the Chagos islands to Mauritius.
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