Historic Agreement Secures Future of Chagos Islands Base

The UK has agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while retaining control of Diego Garcia for 99 years. This strategically significant deal maintains a UK-US military base and strengthens UK-Mauritius relations. International approval includes support from the US, with legal processes underway.

The British government announced a landmark agreement on Thursday, transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This strategic deal ensures the continuity of a significant UK-US military base.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the importance of securing the Diego Garcia base, the largest in the archipelago, as crucial for future military operations and global security.

Without this deal, the base faced potential threats from contested sovereignty and legal challenges. The agreement, awaited to be finalized in a treaty, strengthens UK-Mauritius ties, with notable international support, including from the US.

(With inputs from agencies.)