The UK has announced its decision to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, paving the way for the return of displaced islanders. The agreement, made public on Thursday, resolves a long-standing territorial dispute but allows Britain to maintain control of Diego Garcia, a crucial strategic airbase in the Indian Ocean co-managed with the United States.
The airbase, central to defense and intelligence operations, had been a contentious point in negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which intensified in recent weeks leading up to the decision. US President Joe Biden expressed approval of the agreement, noting that it secures the base’s role in global security for the foreseeable future.
“Diego Garcia remains a vital joint US-UK military facility, crucial for national and regional defense,” Biden stated.
UK Foreign Minister David Lammy highlighted that the deal ensures the continued operation of Diego Garcia amid ongoing legal disputes over the islands’ sovereignty. “This agreement strengthens the security framework while addressing historical challenges tied to the islands,” Lammy said.
