British Foreign Secretary David Lammy (right) with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during a working visit, Photo: Kin Cheung
Last week, tense talks took place between leading British politicians from the right-wing camp, including Nigel Farage and former Prime Minister Liz Truss, and representatives of President-elect Donald Trump’s team. The discussions were aimed at preventing the new UK Labour government from finalising a deal to transfer sovereignty over the strategically important Chagos archipelago in the Indian Ocean, The Independent reports .
The Chagos Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, have become the epicentre of an international conflict that encompasses political, strategic and legal aspects. The United Kingdom has announced its intention to conclude an agreement with Mauritius on the transfer of sovereignty over the archipelago, while retaining control over the Diego Garcia strategic military base jointly with the United States. This step is in line with the decision of the International Court of Justice, which in 2019 declared the British administration of the islands illegal.
However, this initiative has provoked strong opposition among British politicians, including Nigel Farage, Liz Truss and Suella Braverman, who call the deal a threat to national interests. They warn that the transfer of Chagos weakens the West’s position in the region and opens the door to Chinese influence. The situation is also complicated by the opposition of Mauritius, which insists on more favourable terms of the deal.
The Chagos archipelago is of critical importance due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, controlling key sea lanes. Historically, the United Kingdom separated these islands from Mauritius before its independence in 1968, establishing a military base there that is leased by the United States.
The conflict over Chagos is exacerbating international tensions, complicating relations between London, Washington and Port Louis. As allies argue over the strategic future of the region, China may use the situation to increase its influence. Resolving this issue requires diplomatic efforts by all parties to ensure stability and protect geopolitical interests.
