Mauritius Vows To Reclaim Disputed Chagos Islands As UK Puts Deal On Hold

Last Updated:April 11, 2026, 19:29 IST

His remarks come after Britain signalled that it may pause plans to return the islands unless it receives support from the United States

Mauritius has reaffirmed its determination to regain control of the disputed Chagos Islands, even as uncertainty grows over a proposed deal with the United Kingdom. The islands, located in the Indian Ocean, are of strategic importance, particularly Diego Garcia, which hosts a joint US-UK military base.

Speaking at an Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius, Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful stressed that his country would continue its efforts through all possible channels. He said, “We will spare no effort to seize any diplomatic or legal avenue to complete the decolonisation process in this part of the Indian Ocean." He further added, “This is a matter of justice."

His remarks come after Britain signalled that it may pause plans to return the islands unless it receives support from the United States. The development has added a new layer of complexity to the long-standing dispute.

US President Donald Trump had earlier criticised the proposed agreement, calling it “an act of great stupidity," which has influenced the current diplomatic situation.

A statement from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Downing Street office said the agreement would move forward only “if it has US support."

Reports suggest that the legislation required for the deal could run out of time in Parliament, with no immediate plan to introduce a new bill.

Mauritius’ Attorney General Gavin Glover said the situation was expected, pointing to tensions between Washington and London. He said, “We are dependent on Anglo-American relations…the USA and Britain will have to reach an agreement."

Mauritius is scheduled to hold further talks with the British government on April 22 to discuss the future of the Chagos Islands.

News world Mauritius Vows To Reclaim Disputed Chagos Islands As UK Puts Deal On Hold

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