The UK is poised to finalize a landmark agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is scheduled to participate in a virtual signing ceremony with Mauritian officials, marking a pivotal shift in the status of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).
Terms of the Agreement
Under the deal, the UK will hand over control of the islands while securing a 99-year lease for the strategically vital military base on Diego Garcia. This arrangement allows the UK and the US to continue operations on the base in exchange for a multi-billion-pound payment to Mauritius.
The Chagos Archipelago, separated from Mauritius in 1965 before Mauritius gained independence, has long been a subject of international contention. While the UK purchased the islands for £3 million, Mauritius claims the separation was coerced, undermining its sovereignty.
International and Domestic Reactions
In recent years, the UK has faced mounting pressure from the United Nations and other international bodies to return the islands to Mauritian control. The previous Conservative government initiated talks in 2022, but Labour has accelerated the process, arguing that a formal agreement aligns with both national security interests and international law.
Defence Secretary John Healey reiterated the importance of the military base, describing it as "essential to our security." He emphasized that maintaining the base under a lease agreement ensures continued cooperation with the US and stability in the region.
The deal has faced criticism from opposition parties, including the Conservatives and Reform UK. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch expressed concerns over the implications for UK sovereignty, despite former US President Donald Trump signaling support for the agreement.
Impact on Chagossian Communities
Representatives from the Chagossian diaspora have been invited to meet with Stephen Doughty, the minister for Europe, North America, and overseas territories. The discussions aim to address Chagossian interests, though details of the meeting remain sparse.
Broader Implications
The agreement signifies a turning point in UK-Mauritius relations and a strategic recalibration for the UK in the Indo-Pacific. It also underscores the UK's effort to balance historical grievances with contemporary security challenges.
MPs will receive an update on the agreement following the signing ceremony, including potential provisions for extending the lease beyond 99 years.
As the UK prepares to finalize this historic deal, questions remain about its long-term implications for international relations, Chagossian communities, and strategic alliances.
.webp)
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