U.S. Backs UK-Mauritius Deal on Chagos Islands Sovereignty

LONDON, May 22, 2025 — The United States has praised the agreement struck between the United Kingdom and Mauritius concerning the Chagos Archipelago, a critical area in the Indian Ocean. This historic deal secures the future of the joint U.S.-UK military facility on Diego Garcia and reinforces bilateral military cooperation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for the agreement, highlighting its importance for regional and global security. He stated, “This monumental achievement ensures the long-term, stable, and effective operation of the joint U.S.-UK military facility at Diego Garcia.”

The deal, officially announced today, includes a 99-year lease for the United Kingdom to maintain operations on Diego Garcia, which is considered integral for military operations in the area. This arrangement comes after a comprehensive review by the Trump Administration, confirming the need for steady military presence in the region.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the agreement’s significance, indicating it reflects the enduring strength of the U.S.-UK partnership, which extends beyond defense to encompass economic growth and shared leadership. The UK will pay £101 million annually to Mauritius for the lease, amounting to £3.4 billion over the lifespan of the agreement.

While the deal has been framed as a step forward in decolonization for Mauritius, which gained independence in 1968, it has drawn mixed reactions. Some Chagossians, whose ancestors were forcibly removed in the 1970s to establish the military base, expressed dissent, arguing that their rights were overlooked in the negotiations. Bernadette Dugasse, a Chagossian woman, remarked, “I belong in Diego Garcia” while lamenting the lack of voice in the agreement.

Despite criticisms, the deal is seen as vital for Britain’s defense strategy amid growing concerns over China’s influence in the region. Defense Secretary John Healey emphasized the military base’s role, noting, “Without this deal, we could face losing legal rulings that would render the base inoperable.”

The agreement has garnered international attention, as it involves significant geopolitical implications in light of the U.S. and UK military’s historical operations on Diego Garcia, particularly during critical missions in the Middle East.