The Mauritian government has decided to conduct an independent review of the Chagos Islands agreement, casting doubt on the future of Sir Keir Starmer’s deal. The new administration in Mauritius has expressed concerns about the terms of the agreement, stating that they were not fully informed about the details throughout the negotiation process. This has led to the decision to review the agreement independently, with the findings to be presented to the cabinet for consideration.
The Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam, announced the government’s plan to consult external legal advisors and review the terms of the deal. This move comes after Downing Street stated that there are no discussions about renegotiating the agreement. Despite this, the Mauritian government is keen on engaging with the new administration to discuss the details of the deal and ensure transparency in the process.
The Trump administration has also expressed opposition to the agreement, citing security concerns for the West. They have sought assurances that the deal will not be rushed to completion before the inauguration of the new US president, Joe Biden. Nigel Farage and other Brexiteers have reportedly sent legal advice to President Trump, urging him to veto the agreement without causing embarrassment to Sir Keir.
While the UK government has defended the deal, claiming it is necessary due to a ruling by the International Court of Justice, concerns remain about the lack of transparency regarding the agreement’s details and costs. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has maintained that the deal is beneficial, ensuring the use of the airbase on Diego Garcia for the next 99 years. However, the specifics of the agreement have not been made public, raising questions about its terms and implications.
The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office have been approached for comments on the matter, but further clarity is needed regarding the future of the Chagos Islands agreement. The outcome of the independent review in Mauritius and the response from the US administration will play a crucial role in determining the fate of the deal. As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders on all sides must engage in open dialogue and transparency to address concerns and reach a mutually beneficial resolution.
