Discussions from February 23–25 will focus on Diego Garcia, Chagos archipelago and long-term regional security in the Indian Ocean.

The United States and Mauritius will hold bilateral security discussions in Port Louis from February 23 to 25, reinforcing cooperation on regional and global security issues, particularly the strategic importance of the Chagos archipelago.

According to a media note dated February 18, 2026, the talks will be led by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, with participation from across the U.S. interagency.

The discussions will centre on bilateral security cooperation and the effective implementation of security arrangements for the joint U.S.-UK military base on Diego Garcia, aimed at ensuring its long-term and secure operation.

The United States stressed that the Chagos archipelago and the Diego Garcia base remain critical to its national security interests and to stability across the Indian Ocean region.

Washington also reaffirmed its support for the United Kingdom’s decision to proceed with an agreement with Mauritius concerning the Chagos archipelago. In addition, the U.S. reiterated its intention to conclude a separate bilateral agreement with the UK to guarantee continued access to basing and other facilities in the territory.

The planned engagements highlight ongoing efforts by the United States and its partners to strengthen security cooperation and maintain strategic stability in the Indian Ocean.