Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam considers U.S. President Trump’s comments on the Chagos Islands deal as positive, which may influence the ongoing negotiations. The agreement allows the UK to retain military control for 99 years while transferring sovereignty to Mauritius. Trump’s discussions with British Prime Minister Starmer add optimism for the deal’s future, pending further reviews before finalization.
Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments regarding a potential agreement on the Chagos Islands, indicating they could positively influence plans for the U.S.-UK military base. In October, the UK agreed to transfer sovereignty of these islands to Mauritius but will maintain a 99-year lease on the military installations, particularly on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the group.
Despite the initial endorsement from former U.S. President Joe Biden, the deal’s progress has stalled since Trump’s re-election. Ramgoolam’s administration, which began in November, is also concerned about the deal’s future. Trump suggested his support during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing optimism about the deal’s outcome. He stated, “I think we’ll be inclined to go along with your country.”
The UK intends to provide Trump’s administration an opportunity to review the agreement before finalizing it, which adds another layer to the negotiations. Ramgoolam remains cautiously optimistic, stating, “It looks positive. But we will wait and see what are the final proposals.”
In summary, Prime Minister Ramgoolam’s positive assessment of Trump’s comments suggests a hopeful outlook for the Chagos Islands deal. With the U.S. and UK negotiating terms, the future of the military base on Diego Garcia remains uncertain yet potentially advantageous for Mauritius. The careful monitoring of developments by both leaders indicates the complexity and importance of finalizing the agreement.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
