India Welcomes UK’s Decision to Transfer Sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius
India on Thursday expressed its support for the United Kingdom’s decision to transfer the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, marking a significant development in the long-standing dispute over the territory.
The UK has agreed to relinquish its rights over the islands, which include the strategically important Diego Garcia atoll, following more than five decades of negotiations. The agreement, finalized in May 2025, is expected to resolve a contentious issue that has drawn international attention for decades.
Under the terms of the treaty, the UK will retain full responsibility for the security of Diego Garcia, a key military base in the Indian Ocean. This arrangement is intended to ensure the continued operational readiness of the facility while granting Mauritius full jurisdiction over the territory.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated its longstanding support for Mauritius’s claim to the Chagos Archipelago, emphasizing its commitment to the principles of decolonization, respect for sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of nations. The MEA statement highlighted that the resolution of the dispute aligns with international law and the broader framework of a rules-based order.
India’s consistent stance on the matter reflects its broader diplomatic priorities, including the promotion of regional stability and the protection of national sovereignty. The country has long advocated for the peaceful resolution of territorial disputes and the maintenance of a secure and stable maritime environment in the Indian Ocean.
The agreement between the UK and Mauritius is seen as a crucial step toward the complete decolonization of Mauritius, a process that has been a focus of international attention for years. The resolution of the Chagos issue is expected to have far-reaching implications for regional security and the balance of power in the Indian Ocean.
India has also emphasized its commitment to strengthening maritime security and regional stability through continued cooperation with Mauritius and other like-minded nations. This includes efforts to promote peaceful relations, economic development, and sustainable growth in the Indian Ocean region.
The decision to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius is a historic moment that underscores the importance of international law and the principle of self-determination. It also highlights the role of diplomatic engagement in resolving complex geopolitical issues.
As the agreement takes effect, the international community will closely monitor the implications of this development, particularly in terms of its impact on regional security, maritime trade, and the overall geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean.