Britain Returns Chagos Islands Sovereignty to Mauritius

Britain has agreed to return the Chagos Islands' sovereignty to Mauritius, allowing displaced residents to return home. The deal ensures the continued operation of the strategic UK-U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. This move follows international pressure and supports global security efforts.

In a landmark decision, Britain has announced it will return sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This historic agreement permits the return of residents displaced decades ago, while maintaining the strategic UK-U.S. military base on Diego Garcia.

The British government revealed the decision was influenced by international pressure, including a 2019 World Court ruling. Foreign Minister David Lammy highlighted the agreement as pivotal for securing future operations of the Diego Garcia base and reinforcing global security.

After years of contested sovereignty and legal challenges, Britain and Mauritius formalized the deal with support from the United States and India. The agreement marks a significant shift in governance over a region Britain has controlled since 1814.

(With inputs from agencies.)