UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has lauded the recent agreement between the UK and Mauritius concerning the Chagos Archipelago.
He described this accord as a significant stride towards resolving a protracted dispute in the Indian Ocean.
Guterres, through his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, welcomed the signing of the agreement regarding the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia.
He emphasized that this agreement showcases the effectiveness of diplomacy in addressing long-standing historical grievances.
The Secretary-General urged both the UK and Mauritius to maintain constructive dialogue to ensure the rights and aspirations of the Chagossian people are fully respected.
Guterres also pledged the UN’s ongoing support for both nations in this important process.
The signed deal transfers the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands from the UK to Mauritius.
However, it permits the continued joint US-UK operation of the Diego Garcia military base for the next 99 years.
Britain gained control of the Chagos Islands in the early 19th century following the surrender of French forces in the region.
Mauritius, along with its dependencies including the Chagos Islands, officially became a British colony in 1814 under the Treaty of Paris.
