Fri May 23 02:01:07 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite from an Indian perspective:
**Summary:**
The article, published in The Hindu on May 23, 2025, reports on India’s positive response to the United Kingdom’s decision to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia, to Mauritius. India has long supported Mauritius’ claim, viewing the move as a step towards decolonization and respect for territorial integrity. The agreement allows the UK to maintain security responsibilities for Diego Garcia. India sees this as a positive development for regional stability in the Indian Ocean and reaffirms its commitment to working with Mauritius on maritime security.
**News Article:**
**India Hails UK’s Chagos Islands Handover to Mauritius as Milestone for Decolonization**
**New Delhi, May 23, 2025:** India has warmly welcomed the United Kingdom’s historic decision to return sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago, including the strategically significant island of Diego Garcia, to Mauritius. The move, finalized with a treaty signed on May 22nd, marks the end of a long-standing dispute and is viewed by India as a victory for decolonization and international law.
“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,” stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a released statement. “The formal resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute through this bilateral treaty is a milestone achievement and a positive development for the region.”
India has consistently supported Mauritius’ claim to the Chagos Islands, aligning with its “principled position on decolonisation, respect for sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of nations.” The MEA emphasized that this agreement, a culmination of discussions that started in October 2024, embodies the spirit of international law and a rules-based order.
While the UK will retain responsibility for the security of Diego Garcia under the agreement, India sees the transfer of sovereignty as a significant step toward rectifying historical injustices. The move is expected to contribute to greater stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.
India reiterated its commitment to working closely with Mauritius and other like-minded countries to enhance maritime security and promote peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean. This collaboration underscores India’s growing role as a key player in ensuring the security and stability of the region.
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