During his remarks, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of supporting displaced individuals in their right to return to their homeland. The Chagos Islands were acquired by the UK in 1968, but Mauritius has long contended that its sovereignty was compromised under pressure during its independence negotiations. The subsequent establishment of the military base on Diego Garcia led to the forced displacement of Chagossians, who either relocated to Mauritius or resettled elsewhere, including the UK.
As part of the treaty, the UK government will disburse approximately £101 million annually to Mauritius for the treaty's duration, which is contingent upon parliamentary approval from both nations. The deal aims to establish strict limitations around Diego Garcia to prevent further military or civilian development without UK consent.
Although praised by the Mauritian Attorney General, the agreement has faced criticism, with opposition leaders in the UK voicing concerns over national security risks and potential diplomatic repercussions from China. Some Chagossians, particularly those born on Diego Garcia, have mounted legal challenges to gain the right to return, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding the historical injustices of their displacement.
The treaty awaits final approval from the respective parliaments of the UK and Mauritius before taking effect, offering a potential new chapter for the long-suffering Chagos Islands community.
As part of the treaty, the UK government will disburse approximately £101 million annually to Mauritius for the treaty's duration, which is contingent upon parliamentary approval from both nations. The deal aims to establish strict limitations around Diego Garcia to prevent further military or civilian development without UK consent.
Although praised by the Mauritian Attorney General, the agreement has faced criticism, with opposition leaders in the UK voicing concerns over national security risks and potential diplomatic repercussions from China. Some Chagossians, particularly those born on Diego Garcia, have mounted legal challenges to gain the right to return, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding the historical injustices of their displacement.
The treaty awaits final approval from the respective parliaments of the UK and Mauritius before taking effect, offering a potential new chapter for the long-suffering Chagos Islands community.
