Mauritius Prime Minister Welcomes Trump’s Support for Chagos Deal

Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam expressed optimism regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s supportive comments on the Chagos Islands deal. This follows a British decision to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while maintaining control over the military base. Despite uncertainties since Trump’s re-election, Ramgoolam remains hopeful about the agreement’s future.

Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam has characterized U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments regarding the Chagos Islands deal as “positive.” Trump’s remarks suggest the U.S. is likely to support an agreement concerning the ongoing U.S.-UK military base on the islands. This development follows the British decision to grant sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius under a 99-year lease arrangement concerning the military base on Diego Garcia, the archipelago’s largest island.

Although the agreement has not yet reached finalization through a formal treaty, it purportedly enjoyed former U.S. President Joe Biden’s support. However, since Trump’s re-election, uncertainty has arisen regarding the deal’s future. Ramgoolam, elected in November, has also expressed concerns about its status amid these developments.

During a recent meeting at the White House with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Trump indicated his potential endorsement of the deal. He stated, “I think we’ll be inclined to go along with your country,” a sentiment that reflects a welcoming attitude towards the agreement. Ramgoolam remarked, “It looks positive. But we will wait and see what are the final proposals,” indicating an optimistic yet cautious view on the negotiations ahead.

The British government has conveyed its intention to provide the Trump administration with adequate time to assess the agreement before reaching a final decision. This step is seen as crucial in solidifying the future of the Chagos Islands deal, thereby influencing regional military dynamics.

In summary, Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam has welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s supportive comments regarding the Chagos Islands deal, previously agreed upon by Britain. While the deal currently hangs in uncertainty post-Trump’s election, the Prime Minister remains hopeful for a positive outcome. The administration’s forthcoming review of the agreement is deemed critical for its finalization.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my