UK Maintains Non-negotiable Stance on Falklands and Gibraltar
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has stated that the UK's decision to transfer control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius does not affect the status of other British Overseas Territories like the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar. Despite praise for the diplomatic success, the move has led to protests from the Chagossian community in the UK. Lammy reaffirmed that the circumstances surrounding Chagos differ from disputes involving other territories, asserting that Gibraltar and the Falklands' status are non-negotiable.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has clarified that the UK’s decision to hand over control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius does not signal a shift in the status of other British Overseas Territories like the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar.
This decision follows extensive diplomatic negotiations and international pressure and is seen as a diplomatic success by Lammy.
However, it has sparked protests from some within the Chagossian community in the UK, who feel excluded from the decision-making process.
Despite the deal involving Chagos Islands, Lammy emphasized that circumstances differ significantly from disputes over territories such as Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands, whose status remains firmly non-negotiable.
While some praise the agreement, others fear it may embolden other sovereignty claims.
Reassuring citizens of the Falkland Islands, Lammy reiterated the UK's commitment to protecting its territories.