Mauritius-UK Chagos Talks Hit Financial Roadblocks
Negotiations between Mauritius and Britain over sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago have stalled, with Mauritian Deputy Prime Minister Paul Berenger suggesting the reason was disagreements over financial terms. Under the original deal, announced in October, Britain would transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while maintaining its 99-year lease on Diego Garcia, a key British and American military base on the island. However, the new Mauritian government elected last month has called for revisions to the agreement, citing concerns about currency concessions and national sovereignty. The deal has also faced criticism in the UK, with members of the opposition Conservative Party arguing it endangers national security and ignores Chagos’ interests. Despite criticism, Britain insists the deal ensures the long-term security of military bases.
source: British Broadcasting Corporation
