Mauritius has renegotiated its agreement with the United Kingdom regarding control of the Chagos Islands but is awaiting the stance of U.S. President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam announced on Tuesday.
The initial deal, reached in October 2024, outlined Britain’s transfer of sovereignty over the Indian Ocean archipelago to Mauritius while maintaining a UK-US military base on Diego Garcia. However, after taking office in November, Ramgoolam reopened discussions, reportedly seeking increased financial compensation and adjustments to the base’s lease terms.
“We have reached an agreement ready to be signed with Great Britain concerning Chagos,” Ramgoolam informed parliament, emphasizing that Mauritius’ “unambiguous, undiluted” sovereignty over the entire archipelago, including Diego Garcia, was addressed in the revised deal. He did not disclose further details but confirmed that the potential extension of the 99-year lease for the military base would remain subject to negotiation.
UK Plays Down Finalization of Deal
Despite Ramgoolam’s announcement, the UK government was cautious about confirming a finalized agreement. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that any treaty would undergo parliamentary scrutiny before ratification.
Additionally, the UK emphasized the need to consult the newly formed Trump administration, given opposition from some of Trump’s Republican allies regarding the agreement.
Awaiting U.S. Approval
Ramgoolam acknowledged that Mauritius must await President Trump’s position on the deal. “The president has just taken office… He has his own priorities. I’m not in a position to impose a timetable on him,” he told parliament.
Diego Garcia, a key strategic military base, was leased by Britain to the United States after Mauritius gained independence. The base has been instrumental in U.S. military operations, including conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. However, the displacement of Chagos islanders during its establishment led to ongoing legal battles for compensation.
The previously proposed deal reportedly included a 99-year lease on Diego Garcia, with the UK receiving £90 million ($110 million) annually. However, if the U.S. rejects the agreement, Ramgoolam has vowed to continue Mauritius’ pursuit of full sovereignty over the Chagos Islands.