The United Kingdom and Mauritius have reached a long-term agreement securing the future of a joint U.K.-United States military base in Diego Garcia.
The deal provides the U.K. with full operational control of the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago and management of the electromagnetic spectrum satellite used for communications.
British Defence Secretary John Healey highlighted the importance of Diego Garcia’s strategic location. “Without this base, our ability to deter terrorists, defend our interests and protect our troops around the world would be at risk,” he said. “This agreement will safeguard our national and economic security for generations to come.”
Defending British National Security
Situated in the central Indian Ocean, Diego Garcia has been keeping London and its allies safe for over 50 years. According to the British government, the island has played a significant role in its military operations, particularly in the Middle East, East Africa and South Asia. Diego Garcia’s position offers several advantages, such as enabling the United States and Britain to conduct emergency planning and operations and protecting vital global shipping lines.
Mauritius gained sovereignty over Diego Garcia in 2019 after an International Court of Justice advisory opinion concluded that London needs to end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago. It was seconded by a 2021 ruling from a Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea affirming the ICJ opinion.