India is in final stages of an agreement to supply oil and gas to Mauritius, aimed at strengthening the island nation’s energy security amid disruptions caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict (2026). The development was highlighted during the Indian Ocean Conference 2026, where India reiterated its commitment to regional stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The crisis in West Asia, particularly tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, has disrupted global shipping routes and led to a sharp rise in oil prices, underlining the importance of strategic energy partnerships.
India–Mauritius Energy Pact Highlights
- India is finalising an agreement to supply oil and gas to Mauritius
- Objective: Enhance energy security of Mauritius
- Acts as a safeguard against global supply disruptions
Impact of West Asia Conflict
Conflict has:
- Disrupted global oil supply chains
- Increased oil prices
- Affected shipping routes
Strait of Hormuz handles:
- ~20% of global oil trade
- Any disruption has global economic consequences
India’s Stand
Reaffirmed opposition to:
- Targeting of civilians
- Attacks on infrastructure & commercial shipping
Called for:
- De-escalation
- Regional stability
About Indian Ocean Conference (IOC)
- Launched in 2016 by India Foundation
- Participation from 40+ countries
- Focus:
- Regional cooperation
- Maritime security
- Guided by India’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)
Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Strategic Importance
- Covers 70 million sq km (~20% of Earth’s surface)
- Key global trade hub:
- 50% of container ships
- 1/3rd of bulk cargo
- 2/3rd of global oil shipments
- Includes 35+ littoral states
- Home to ~40% of world population
- India acts as a net security provider in the region
About Mauritius
Mauritius is a strategically important island nation and a key partner of India in the IOR.
Location & Geography
- Located in the Indian Ocean, ~800 km east of Madagascar
- Part of Mascarene Islands
- Capital: Port Louis
Territories
- Rodrigues Island
- Agalega Islands
- Cargados Carajos Shoals
- Chagos Archipelago (including Diego Garcia)
Physical Features
- Volcanic origin
- Central plateau surrounded by mountains
- Highest peak: Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire (828 m)
- Surrounded by coral reefs
Water & Economy
- Major rivers:
- Grand River South East
- Black River
- Main reservoir: Lake Vacoas
- Economy: Dominated by sugarcane cultivation
Significance of Agreement
- Energy Security: Reduces Mauritius’ vulnerability to global supply shocks
- Strategic Diplomacy: Strengthens India–Mauritius relations and Reinforces India’s leadership in the IOR
- Maritime Stability: Ensures secure energy supply chains in a volatile region
- SAGAR Vision: Aligns with India’s policy of regional cooperation and inclusive growth