The government expresses confidence that a swift resolution regarding the Chagos Archipelago will be achieved in the coming weeks between Mauritius and the United Kingdom (UK).
On Tuesday morning, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam addressed this matter during a session in the National Assembly, responding to a Private Notice Question about the current status of negotiations regarding Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam highlighted that a delegation from Mauritius, led by Attorney General Mr. Gavin Glover, traveled to the UK for further discussions in London on January 16 and 17. During meetings with his British counterparts, Lord Hermer and Under Secretary of State Stephen Doughty, Attorney General Glover received assurances of the UK Government’s commitment to finalizing the agreement.
The Leader of the House noted that the previous delegation, also led by Attorney General Glover, engaged in advanced discussions during their visit to the UK, which resulted in an earlier-than-expected return.
Dr. Ramgoolam emphasized that a special Cabinet meeting was convened on January 15, 2025, to review the progress made. However, he revealed that earlier that same day, the UK Government communicated that, due to an impending change in administration in the United States, they would seek the opinions of the new administration before proceeding with the agreement.
Additionally, Prime Minister Ramgoolam mentioned a recent phone conversation he had with his British counterpart, Sir Keir Starmer, during which Starmer expressed his intention to move forward with the agreement between Mauritius and the UK concerning the Chagos Archipelago.