UK and Mauritius Reach Historic Agreement on Chagos Archipelago
The governments of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Mauritius have announced a significant agreement regarding the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia. This marks a major shift in their geopolitical relations. The UK will transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, allowing displaced residents to return, while maintaining the British-US military base on Diego Garcia.
After two years of negotiations, both countries have committed to resolving disputes peacefully and respecting international law. The UK will recognize Mauritius’s sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, while ensuring the continued operation of the Diego Garcia base for 99 years. This agreement aims to address past injustices and support the welfare of Chagossians.
Mauritius will implement a resettlement program for the islands, excluding Diego Garcia, and the UK will establish a trust fund and provide additional support for Chagossians. The International Court of Justice had previously advised the UK to return the islands to Mauritius in 2019.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the importance of the military base for global security and the strengthened relationship with Mauritius. The UK will also offer financial support to Mauritius, including infrastructure development and economic growth initiatives.
Both nations will collaborate on environmental protection, maritime security, and combating illegal activities in the Chagos Archipelago. The treaty has the support of the United States and India, highlighting its global significance.
Doubts Revealed
UK -: The UK stands for the United Kingdom, which is a country in Europe made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Mauritius -: Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its beautiful beaches and diverse culture.
Chagos Archipelago -: The Chagos Archipelago is a group of islands in the Indian Ocean, which has been a point of dispute between the UK and Mauritius.
Sovereignty -: Sovereignty means having full control or authority over a territory or country.
Diego Garcia -: Diego Garcia is an island in the Chagos Archipelago that hosts a military base used by the UK and the US.
Displaced residents -: Displaced residents are people who were forced to leave their homes, often due to political or military reasons.
99-year agreement -: A 99-year agreement is a long-term contract that allows the military base to operate for 99 years.
Financial support -: Financial support means providing money to help with expenses or development.
Environmental and security issues -: These are concerns related to protecting nature and ensuring safety from threats.
Treaty -: A treaty is a formal agreement between countries.
US -: The US stands for the United States, a country in North America.
India -: India is a large country in South Asia, known for its rich history and culture.