U.K. to Return Chagos Islands to Mauritius, Ending Colonial-Era Dispute
Briefly

Britain's handover of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius marks a significant move in addressing colonial legacies and geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean region. The agreement ends lengthy negotiations and recognizes Mauritius' sovereignty, while allowing continued U.S. military presence at Diego Garcia, illustrating the complex interplay of regional security and historical injustices.
The agreement allows Mauritius to assume sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago but permits continued U.S. military operations at Diego Garcia, underscoring its strategic importance.
Britain's control over the Chagos Islands has been increasingly criticized, with the UN and international courts supporting Mauritius' claim that the islands were illegally taken during its 1968 independence.
Negotiations on the Chagos began in 2022 amid rising pressure from African nations, highlighting the enduring impacts of colonialism and the desire for sovereignty in the region.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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