India-built airstrip inaugurated in Agaléga, Mauritius: Its strategic significance vis-a-vis Maldives and China

Syllabus: GS-II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: India and its neighboring countries, Issue: Indian ocean region

Context:

  • India replaced military personal with technical personal in Maldives.
  • Indian and Mauritius Prime Minister jointly inaugurated an airstrip and a jetty built on Agaléga Island.

Development in both countries:

  • India’s presence in Agaléga would enhance monitoring of Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone and counter various threats, including piracy and illegal fishing.

China’s presence in Indian Ocean:

  • Indian Ocean serves as the primary theater for China’s trade and diplomatic engagements.
  • China maintains embassies in all six major islands in the Indian Ocean.
  • China has established a military presence in the region. (Egg- Djibouti on the Horn of Africa)

India should recognize the importance of collaborating with island nations in the Indian Ocean region.

And considering the impact of their domestic politics on foreign policies.

Prelims connect

·         Island countries in the Indian Ocean- Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, and Comoros

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