The UK has announced its decision to relinquish sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, a strategically significant cluster in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius after more than 50 years.
This agreement follows years of negotiations and will include the handover of Diego Garcia, a key US military base, although the base will remain operational under UK control for an initial period of 99 years.
This historic move, announced jointly by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, marks a significant step toward resolving longstanding tensions between the two nations. The treaty will also address the welfare of displaced Chagossians, with resettlement plans for the islands, excluding Diego Garcia, and financial support from the UK to Mauritius.
The announcement, welcomed by US President Joe Biden, comes at a time of increased geopolitical competition in the region involving Western powers, India, and China.
However, some Chagossians have voiced feelings of exclusion and frustration over the lack of involvement in the negotiations.
This decision is part of a broader shift in international sentiment regarding the UK’s colonial legacy. The move also reflects the UK’s desire to garner support from African nations and the global community, especially in light of Brexit and other pressing international issues.
Despite some opposition from UK political figures, the deal marks the peaceful and legal resolution of one of the last remnants of Britain’s colonial empire.
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