Efforts to finalize a sovereignty agreement over the Chagos Islands between the UK and Mauritius have hit a setback, as Mauritius’ new Prime Minister, Navin Ramgoolam, has rejected the draft deal brokered by his predecessor. Ramgoolam argued that the proposed agreement “would not produce the benefits the nation could expect” and confirmed that talks have resumed with new counter-proposals.
The deal, initially struck under the previous Mauritian administration, included a plan for the UK to cede sovereignty over the Chagos Islands—also known as the British Indian Ocean Territory—while retaining a lease for the strategically vital UK-US military base on Diego Garcia.
Addressing Mauritius’ parliament on Tuesday, Ramgoolam stated, “Mauritius made clear that while it is still willing to conclude an agreement with the United Kingdom, the draft agreement shown to us after the general elections is one which, in our view, would not produce the benefits that the nation could expect.”
He revealed that Mauritius had submitted counter-proposals to the UK, with the British government providing a response now under review by his administration.
Despite the setback, Downing Street expressed optimism about the negotiations. A spokesperson for the UK Prime Minister said, “The agreement we’ve struck with Mauritius protects the long-term secure operation of the UK-US base, which plays such a crucial role in regional and international security.”
The draft deal has also raised concerns from senior figures in the United States, with some warning of potential risks to US national security. Marco Rubio, the incoming US Secretary of State, has previously described the agreement as a “serious threat,” citing fears over China’s growing influence in Mauritius.
While both sides remain committed to reaching an agreement, the new Mauritian administration has made it clear that any deal must prioritize the nation’s interests, leaving the future of the Chagos Islands’ sovereignty in delicate balance.