If you open a map that tracks ships, zoom in on the Indian Ocean,
then turn on live tracking, the vital arteries of global commerce become obvious.
Without access to it, trade between Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia would basically grind to a halt.
These are the choke points, the critical passages that fuel the world economy.
For India, they're non-negotiable, carrying almost all its trade and energy.
Since the Indian Ocean is named after India, it is quite integral to India's worldview.
But it's also important to another giant.
China is pouring billions into ports, infrastructure and naval expansion.
And that has India alarmed.
China is not violating any international rules, and China is not infringing upon India's interest.
Therefore, they have to change the mentality.
What were once obscure specs in the vast Indian Ocean are now the silent targets in a looming struggle.
One that could choke global trade and tilt the balance of power.
There is increased competition between the US and China, between China and India as well, buying for influence within that.
President Donald Trump's shift in foreign policy has cast uncertainty on the US's role in the region.
I will put America first.
And open doors for China.
At the center of it all are tiny countries like Mauritius,
which find themselves courted by powers that might once have overlooked them.
Mauritius is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, the lagoon,