UK Urges Mauritius for Strong Protections on Chagos Islands Military Base Deal
The United Kingdom is actively seeking robust assurances from Mauritius concerning a military base situated in the Chagos Islands, following a recent agreement that aims to resolve a long-standing territorial dispute. This comes after the UK committed to transferring control of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, a decision reached in late 2024.
During a recent conversation between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, the leaders discussed the necessity of implementing strong protections for the joint UK-US military base located on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. According to a statement from Downing Street, Starmer emphasized the importance of a secure arrangement that would safeguard the base from any potential adverse influences.
The agreement stipulates that while Britain will relinquish direct governance of the islands, it will retain a 99-year lease on the military base, which has been a critical asset for US military operations in the Indian Ocean region. The US has utilized this base extensively for various military missions, including operations in East Africa and the Middle East.
The Chagos Islands, an archipelago comprising approximately 60 islands, have been under British control since 1965, when the UK established the military base on Diego Garcia and subsequently leased it to the United States. This strategic location has allowed for significant military logistics, including long-range bombing missions during conflicts such as those in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam, who assumed office in November, has expressed reservations regarding the deal negotiated by his predecessor. He has indicated that the agreement may not adequately benefit Mauritius and has hinted at concerns regarding specific aspects of the arrangement, although he has not provided detailed criticisms.
The United States has a vested interest in the outcome of this agreement, as it relates to security and military strategy in the region. In past discussions, former US officials have raised concerns about the potential implications of ceding control of the islands to a nation allied with China. The UK's Conservative Party has echoed these sentiments, arguing that the deal could inadvertently allow for increased Chinese military presence in the Indian Ocean.
As negotiations continue, both leaders have reiterated their commitment to reaching an agreement that serves the interests of both nations while ensuring the strategic importance of the military base is upheld. Future discussions are anticipated as both parties work towards finalizing the details of this significant geopolitical arrangement.
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