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The dispute that lasted for almost half a century between Britain and Mauritius has ended. Britain and Mauritius have finally reached an agreement on the Chagos Islands. According to reports, Britain has agreed to hand over Chagos Island to Mauritius. Chagos Islands is a strategically important area located in the Indian Ocean. India has also been supporting Mauritius in this matter.
UK-US military operations to continue
Britain has said that under the agreement the sovereignty of Chagos Island will be handed over to Mauritius. Following the agreement, people displaced from the island decades ago will be allowed to return home. However, Britain will continue to use the UK-US military base in Diego Garcia. Let us tell you that together with Britain and America, they run a military base on Diego Garcia Island of Chagos, which gives them strategic strength in the Indian Ocean.
What was the whole controversy?
Actually, this area has been under British occupation since 1814. In the 1960–70s, Britain forced the evacuation of approximately 2,000 residents of Mauritius and Seychelles living on the Chagos Islands. This incident is still seen as a crime against humanity. Even when Mauritius gained independence in 1968, Britain continued to occupy the territory and, along with the US, built a military base here. There was a dispute going on in this matter between Britain and Mauritius for more than 50 years. Between 2019 and 2021, the International Court of Justice also ruled in favor of Mauritius.
Why is the island important?
Chagos is a group of about 60 islands located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. It is spread over an area of 60 square kilometers. This archipelago is located at a distance of about 2,200 kilometers from Mauritius. The geographical location of Chagos gives any country a significant strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean. It is believed that this is the reason why Britain and America still want to build a military base here.
What did Britain say?
British Foreign Minister David Lammy has issued a statement regarding this agreement. He said, 'Britain has reached an agreement with Mauritius to secure an important military base in Diego Garcia. This agreement also has the support of America and it will protect international security. This agreement will stem the flow of illegal migration and protect against threats in the Indian Ocean.