Mauritius PM Ramgoolam Welcomes Trump’s Positive Remarks on Chagos Deal
Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam has termed U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about a military base deal in the Chagos Islands as “positive.” The UK has agreed to cede sovereignty to Mauritius but retains control of Diego Garcia for 99 years. This agreement’s future was uncertain until Trump’s supportive comments during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam has characterized U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks regarding a potential deal on the future of the U.S.-UK military base in the Chagos Islands as “positive.” These comments suggest that Washington is likely to support an agreement concerning the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, which was ceded to Mauritius under a recent accord with the United Kingdom.
In October, the UK agreed to return sovereignty of the Chagos Islands but will maintain control over the Diego Garcia military base for the next 99 years. Although the initial agreement had the endorsement of former U.S. President Joe Biden, its status has become uncertain following Trump’s re-election. Prime Minister Ramgoolam, elected in November, expressed concerns about the deal’s prospects.
During a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House, Trump indicated he would likely support the agreement, stating, “It looks positive. But we will wait and see what are the final proposals.” He also expressed optimism about the deal’s outcome, suggesting collaboration with the UK would be favorable. The UK has announced it will offer the Trump administration an opportunity to review the agreement prior to its finalization.
In summary, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam of Mauritius has expressed cautious optimism regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments on a potential deal concerning the Chagos Islands. This deal, which involves transferring sovereignty to Mauritius while allowing the UK to retain control of the Diego Garcia military base, remains under review, pending the final agreement with the Trump administration.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
