The United Kingdom has officially transferred sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, ending a long-standing colonial dispute. The treaty, signed on 22 May 2025, restores Mauritian control over the archipelago while allowing the UK and the US to maintain a military base on Diego Garcia for the next 99 years.
Under the agreement, Mauritius regains sovereignty, but the UK retains a lease on Diego Garcia, a strategically important island housing a key military base. The lease will last 99 years with annual payments adjusted for inflation.
India has welcomed the treaty, reaffirming its support for Mauritius’s claim. Indian officials called the agreement a significant step towards decolonisation and regional stability in the Indian Ocean.
However, the displaced Chagossian community remains concerned. They highlight that the treaty does not address their right to return to their homeland. Activists say their voices were excluded during negotiations and continue to seek legal remedies.
The financial terms of the deal have sparked debate. The UK estimates the lease costs at £3.4 billion in net present value terms, but critics suggest the actual expense may reach up to £30 billion over time, calling for greater transparency.
Diego Garcia’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean underlines the importance of the agreement. The ongoing military presence benefits the UK, the US, and allied nations, securing influence in a key geopolitical region.
