Starmer Urges Mauritius to Protect Chagos Islands Deal Amid Concerns

UK Prime Minister emphasizes the need for 'strong protections' for the military base on Diego Garcia in the Chagos Islands.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on Mauritius to ensure that the agreement over the Chagos Islands safeguards the UK-US military base from external influence.

The deal, signed last year, involves the UK relinquishing control of its final African colony while maintaining control over the Diego Garcia military base for at least 99 years.

The agreement, which was supported by the Biden administration, has since faced criticism, particularly from allies of former US President Donald Trump, who raised concerns about Mauritius’ relationship with China.

Starmer stressed the need for strong protections to secure the base and ensure its continued operation.

Discussions between Starmer and Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam highlighted the UK-Mauritius relationship, though the deal faces uncertainty due to a change in leadership in both countries.

Ramgoolam has ordered a review of the agreement, questioning its benefits for Mauritius.

The UK had promised to pay £90 million annually for Diego Garcia’s continued control, with plans to expedite the payments.

However, opposition from US figures, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggests the deal may encounter further challenges.

Despite these concerns, both Starmer and Ramgoolam reaffirmed their commitment to the deal during their recent discussions.