Britain and Mauritius have reported significant progress in negotiations over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including arrangements for the U.S.-British military base on Diego Garcia. Both nations are working toward ratifying a deal struck in October, which transfers control of the islands to Mauritius while Britain retains the base under a 99-year lease.
In a joint statement, both sides reiterated their commitment to reaching a treaty that recognizes Mauritius’s sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago and ensures the base’s long-term operational security.
The timing is crucial, with Britain aiming to finalize the agreement before Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. However, concerns have emerged from U.S. officials, such as Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio, who warned that the agreement could threaten U.S. security by transferring control to a nation with ties to China.
Additionally, some Chagossians have expressed dissatisfaction with the negotiations, criticizing their exclusion from the process and threatening protests against the deal. The Diego Garcia base remains a critical hub for U.S. military operations, hosting long-range bombers and warships.
