Downing Street announced that a deal to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is being finalized after U.S. approval. The UK will relinquish sovereignty while retaining access to Diego Garcia. Ongoing negotiations with Mauritius continue amid legal rulings favoring the latter.
Discussions are actively underway to finalize a deal regarding the Chagos Islands, giving sovereignty to Mauritius, as confirmed by Downing Street. This agreement proposes that the United Kingdom will cede control over the British Indian Ocean Territory while retaining a lease for the critically significant Diego Garcia military base, which is utilized by the United States.
The Prime Minister’s representative emphasized the ongoing negotiations with the Mauritian government to establish final terms for the deal. During a visit to Washington in February, President Trump expressed optimism concerning the arrangement, stating that he believes it will be beneficial.
Moreover, the official spokesperson acknowledged President Trump’s recognition of the deal’s merits and confirmed that negotiations aim to formalize the treaty soon. Initial announcements of the deal occurred last year, but political changes in Mauritius and the return of Mr. Trump to the presidency caused uncertainties in the agreement’s progression.
The UK Government has argued that relinquishing sovereignty is necessary due to international legal rulings favoring Mauritius. Reports indicate that the deal could incur costs of approximately £90 million annually to secure access to Diego Garcia, with front-loaded payments made to gain the support of the Mauritian government.
In conclusion, a significant agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is being finalized, with the UK retaining a lease for the strategic Diego Garcia base. Support from the United States is evident, and ongoing discussions will establish the final terms of the deal, highlighting international legal considerations and economic implications.
Original Source: www.standard.co.uk
