NEW DELHI: On Thursday, India announced it will provide approximately $680 million in economic support to Mauritius. This funding will be used for various projects in healthcare, infrastructure, and maritime security, signaling India’s efforts to strengthen its influence in the Indian Ocean as it competes with China.
This aid, which consists of grants and credit lines, also aims to help develop and monitor the marine protected area around the Chagos archipelago. This area is notable for hosting a U.S.-British military base on Diego Garcia.
In May, Britain transferred sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, but it still maintains control over the military base under a long-term lease. Historically, India has supported Mauritius in its claims to these islands while also backing the U.S. presence in the region to counter China’s expanding influence, given China’s strong trade connections with Mauritius.
The marine protected area is one of the largest inthe world, covering about 250,000 square miles, which is even larger than California.
The economic assistance was shared in a joint statement during the official visit of Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam to India. This assistance also includes funding for a new hospital and improvements to ports, as well as the provision of helicopters and an additional budget support of $25 million for this financial year.
