Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s supportive remarks on a potential deal regarding the Chagos Islands. The agreement would see Britain cede sovereignty to Mauritius while keeping a military base on Diego Garcia under a long-term lease. The deal is awaiting finalization and has experienced uncertainties following Trump’s re-election.
PORT LOUIS (Reuters) – Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam, has responded positively to statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the potential support for a deal involving the future of a military base in the Chagos Islands. This follows an agreement made by Britain in October to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining a 99-year lease on the military base located on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago.
Although the agreement awaits formalization through a treaty, it previously enjoyed the endorsement of former President Joe Biden. However, uncertainties emerged with Trump’s re-election, prompting Ramgoolam, who assumed office in November, to express concerns about the matter. During a recent meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House, Trump indicated his likely support for the deal.
“It looks positive. But we will wait and see what are the final proposals,” Ramgoolam stated in an interview with L’Hebdo, addressing Trump’s remarks on the issue. Trump expressed his optimism, mentioning that he would confer with Starmer about the agreement, asserting, “I think we’ll be inclined to go along with your country.”
Britain has committed to allowing the Trump administration the opportunity to review the deal before it is concluded, indicating cooperative dialogue regarding this significant international matter.
In summary, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam of Mauritius views President Trump’s comments as a positive indication of future support for a deal concerning the Chagos Islands. The deal, which remains to be finalized, reflects an ongoing dialogue between the United States and the United Kingdom, emphasizing the strategic importance of Diego Garcia. The situation remains under evaluation as both leaders navigate the complexities of this international agreement.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
