Chagos Islands Sovereignty and Strategic Agreements

The United Kingdom (U.K.) has officially transferred sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, marking a significant geopolitical development. This decision follows a political treaty concluded in October of the previous year. Under this agreement, the U.K. will lease the crucial naval and bomber base on Diego Garcia from Mauritius for £101 million a year for 99 years.

Historical Background

• In 1814, the Chagos Archipelago, along with Mauritius and Seychelles, was ceded to the British empire.
• In 1965, the islands were formed into the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).
• Mauritius achieved independence in 1968, with the U.K. paying £3 million for the Chagos Archipelago's detachment.
• From 1968 to 1973, inhabitants were forcibly removed to establish a military base, leading to the exile of approximately 10,000 Chagossians.

Legal and Diplomatic Developments

• Mauritius has consistently claimed sovereignty over Chagos, citing violations of United Nations resolutions.
• In 2010, the U.K. declared the area a 'Marine Protected Area,' which was later challenged by Mauritius in the Permanent Court of Arbitration, resulting in a favorable ruling for Mauritius.
• In 2019, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared that the decolonization of Mauritius was incomplete and urged the U.K. to end its administration of Chagos.

Details of the New Agreement

• The U.K. will pay varying annual amounts, starting at £165 million for the first three years.
• The U.K. retains certain controls, including a 24-mile buffer around Diego Garcia and veto power over access to the islands.
• A £40 million trust fund will be established to support Chagossians, though Mauritius cannot resettle Diego Garcia.

Controversies and Challenges

• Two Chagossians challenged the agreement, wanting to return to their native islands.
• The Conservative party expressed concerns about sovereignty transfer to Mauritius, citing potential Chinese influence.
• The deal is projected to cost the British exchequer a "net" £3.4 billion after inflation adjustments.

India's Role and Regional Implications

• India supported Mauritius' claim, encouraging negotiations for mutually beneficial outcomes to enhance long-term security in the Indian Ocean.
• The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India welcomed the deal, affirming support for Mauritius’ legitimate claim over the Chagos Archipelago.