UK agrees to return Chagos Islands, keeps Diego Garcia base

• Agreement on the return of the Chagos Islands: The United Kingdom has signed an agreement whereby the Chagos Archipelago is returned to Mauritius, but the military base on Diego Garcia remains under British and American control.
• Strategic importance: As Prime Minister Keir Starmer has emphasized, Diego Garcia Island continues to be a crucial site for British-American military collaboration.
• Legal issues: The agreement's signing was delayed by a lawsuit, which was dismissed by a court in London.

The United Kingdom and Mauritius have reached an agreement regarding the return of the Chagos Archipelago. According to the agreement, Diego Garcia Island, part of the archipelago, was returned to Mauritius. However, the United Kingdom has leased it for the next 99 years and is committed to paying C$173.72 million per year for the lease. Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted that the military base on Diego Garcia is essential for national security.

The signing of the agreement was delayed by a lawsuit brought by two women from Chagos, who accused the British government of not consulting them. A court in London rejected the lawsuit, suggesting that blocking the agreement could harm public interests. Mauritius has long sought the return of the islands, arguing they were forced to relinquish them in exchange for independence.

Mauritius has secured support from African countries and UN bodies, prompting the United Kingdom to negotiate. In October of last year, London agreed to recognize Mauritius's sovereignty over Chagos, with the condition of maintaining the military base. The agreement is crucial for regional stability and international cooperation.