The UK is set to sign an agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Under the terms, the US and UK will retain the right to operate a military base on Diego Garcia for an initial period of 99 years, in exchange for a multi-billion-pound payment.
The deal, which had previously stalled due to changes in leadership in both Mauritius and the US, is now moving forward. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is scheduled to attend a virtual signing ceremony with Mauritian representatives on Thursday.
The Chagos Islands, officially known as the British Indian Ocean Territory, have been a point of contention due to the displacement of the Chagossian community. Representatives of the community are expected to meet with UK officials to discuss the agreement.
This development marks a significant shift in the UK’s colonial legacy and its military presence in the Indian Ocean region.
