Mauritius is considering legal action against the United Kingdom over delays in ratifying the Chagos Islands agreement, after criticism from US President Donald Trump stalled the deal. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam told local media that his government was 'exploring legal avenues' following the postponement, which has impacted the island nation's budget planning.
The deal, struck last year by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, involves handing over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while the UK pays £3.4bn over a century to retain control of the strategically important US-UK military base on Diego Garcia. However, the agreement has been effectively paused after Trump issued strong objections.
Ramgoolam stated that 'the 2026-27 budget will not be an easy one' due to the delays, but the UK government reportedly believes there are no legal grounds for Mauritius to claim compensation if the treaty is not ratified. The UK has agreed to pay at least £120m annually for 99 years if the deal proceeds.
A Downing Street spokesperson reiterated the UK's position, saying: 'Retaining control of Diego Garcia is the entire basis of the agreement… It is a key strategic military asset for both the UK and the US.' The Foreign Office added that the deal is now contingent on US approval, though officials insist there is 'no pause' on the plan.
Trump this week called the Chagos Islands a 'stupid island' and accused the UK of being 'very, very uncooperative'. He remarked, 'This is not Winston Churchill that we’re dealing with,' and criticised the 100-year lease arrangement involving 'indigenous people claiming the island that never even saw the island before.'
An FCDO spokesperson defended the deal, stating it ensures the base remains secure and operational for the long term, preventing legal challenges and blocking adversaries from compromising its operation.
