** Mauritius welcomes Donald Trump's new position on the Chagos Archipelago sovereignty deal with the UK. Analysis of the US strategic pivot, implications for Diego Garcia, and the future for Chagossian refugees.
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In a momentous diplomatic twist, Mauritius has warmly embraced a remarkable U-turn in the US position concerning the sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago. Former US President Donald Trump, who famously dubbed the initial UK-Mauritius agreement a "major folly," has now publicly acknowledged its "importance to Washington." This dramatic turnaround, spotlighting the critical strategic value of Diego Garcia's US military base, has truly breathed new life into the long-stalled negotiation process and ignited fresh hope for the long-suffering Chagossian community.
**The US Strategic Pivot: From "Folly" to the "Best Possible" Deal**
Donald Trump's recent message on Truth Social signals a pivotal ideological shift. His reference to "productive discussions" with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hints at intensive backroom negotiations aimed squarely at safeguarding American strategic interests. At its heart, this pivot reflects a profound re-evaluation: the current agreement, which would see sovereignty returned to Mauritius while firmly guaranteeing the UK's continued operation of the Diego Garcia base, is now viewed in Washington not as a danger, but as the "best possible" formula for enduring stability. Crucially, Trump firmly declared his right to "enhance the US military presence" should the base face any threat, signaling that the bedrock of security remains Washington's ultimate non-negotiable.
**Mauritius' Cautious Optimism and the Path Forward**
The Mauritian government, spearheaded by Attorney General Gavin Glover, met the news with swift, yet measured, optimism. Glover's assertion that the US now "understands this is the best possible agreement" speaks volumes, demonstrating satisfaction with a framework that cleverly weds historical justice to stark geopolitical realities. Mauritius has strategically pledged to "work with London and Washington to ensure the treaty's success," indicating a path of collaboration, not contention. The immediate focus now shifts to practical implementation, with the return of Chagossians, forcibly removed in the 1970s, standing as a central and solemn commitment.
**A Victory for Truth: The Chagossian Refugees' Long-Awaited Hope**
For the Chagossian community, this political transformation is deeply personal. Olivier Bancoult, a prominent leader of the Chagos Refugees Group, breathed a sigh of relief, proclaiming, "Truth has prevailed!" His fervent hope is for the swift recommencement of discussions within the UK Parliament, particularly the House of Lords, whose proceedings had been stalled after Trump's initial public rebuke. The US shift effectively dissolves a significant external impediment, squarely placing the onus on British legislators to adhere to international law and finally deliver long-overdue justice.
**What Happens Next? Challenges of Implementation**
While the US shift is undeniably pivotal, the road ahead demands meticulous navigation:
1. **UK Parliamentary Action:** The alacrity and resolve with which the Starmer government can guide this accord through Parliament, especially the House of Lords, presents the immediate acid test.
2. **Trilateral Partnership:** Success hinges on Mauritius's capacity to seamlessly collaborate on security with the US and UK, while simultaneously driving forward sustainable development and resettlement initiatives.
3. **Transitional Justice:** Ultimately, fair recompense and restorative justice for the dispossessed Chagossians will serve as the true barometer of this accord's sincerity.
** A Window of Opportunity for Resolution**
The altered US position on the Chagos Archipelago stands as a testament to Mauritius's unwavering diplomatic persistence and a pragmatic recalibration of global security imperatives. It compellingly illustrates that a "win-win" formula, one that honors both national sovereignty and vital strategic requirements, isn't just an option—it's the sole viable path forward. The final substantial impediment to progress has been swept away. The message echoing toward Westminster is unmistakable: the moment for a historic vote has arrived—a vote that can, at long last, rectify a painful colonial injustice and reinstate the fundamental right of return for the Chagos islanders.
The Al Jazeera Arabic website, including information from Agence France-Presse.