Mauritius Stalls Chagos Islands Deal: Diego Garcia Lease Issue
Mauritius is currently at a standstill over a crucial deal regarding the Chagos Islands, putting UK ministers under pressure to salvage the agreement in less than a month. The government in Mauritius, newly in power, has expressed dissatisfaction with the terms negotiated by the previous administration. This development has sparked tensions, with the deputy prime minister accusing the British government of nitpicking over compensation.
US and UK Officials Scramble
Senior officials from the US and UK are now working frantically to rescue the deal and have it ratified before Donald Trump assumes office on 20 January. Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, recently urged Navin Ramgoolam, the prime minister of Mauritius, to finalize the treaty during a phone call. Ramgoolam conveyed the message that certain aspects of the agreement, reached on 3 October by the former Mauritian prime minister, were unacceptable. He also mentioned that a counter-proposal had been submitted for consideration.
Negotiating Terms
After years of negotiations, Britain agreed to transfer sovereignty over the islands to Mauritius in October, with the condition that a UK-US military base on the largest island, Diego Garcia, could remain operational. However, since assuming office, Ramgoolam has been pushing to renegotiate the terms, particularly seeking increased compensation for the 99-year lease of Diego Garcia.
Key Concerns
Paul Bérenger, the Mauritian deputy prime minister, emphasized that the primary sticking point in the negotiations was financial. He stressed the importance of ensuring a fair deal for Mauritius, especially considering the prolonged use of Chagos and Diego Garcia by the UK without permission.
Historical Context
The Chagos Islands have been a source of contention since Mauritius gained independence in the 1960s. The UK’s retention of control over the islands led to the displacement of thousands of Chagossians, who have since pursued legal avenues for compensation in British courts. Diego Garcia, in particular, has been pivotal as a joint US-UK military base, serving as a crucial hub for military operations during various conflicts.
As negotiations continue and tensions rise, the fate of the Chagos Islands hangs in the balance. The outcome of this deal will not only impact the territorial sovereignty of Mauritius but also have broader implications for international relations and military alliances in the region. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding diplomatic saga.