India has officially welcomed the United Kingdom’s decision to return sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, including the strategically significant Diego Garcia, to Mauritius. The handover marks the end of more than five decades of British control over the island chain.

The historic agreement ensures that while sovereignty will be transferred to Mauritius, the United Kingdom will retain full responsibility for the security of Diego Garcia, a key military and surveillance base in the Indian Ocean.

In a statement issued Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “We welcome the signing of the treaty between the UK and Mauritius on the return of Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia.”

India emphasized that the agreement is aligned with its long-standing position in support of Mauritius’s claim to the islands. “India has consistently supported Mauritius’s legitimate claim over the Chagos Archipelago in keeping with its principled position on decolonisation, respect for sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of nations,” the MEA said.

The ministry also noted the broader significance of the development, stating, “The formal resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute through this bilateral treaty is a milestone achievement and a positive development for the region.”

India highlighted that the agreement stems from an understanding reached between the UK and Mauritius in October 2024 and represents the final step in the decolonisation of Mauritius in line with international law and a rules-based global order.

“India remains committed to working closely with Mauritius and other like-minded countries to strengthen maritime security and regional stability and ensure peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region,” the MEA added.