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Pope Leo XIV expressed his happiness at the UK’s decision to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Meeting with a group of 15 Chagos refugees, the pope referred to this move as a “significant victory” in their ongoing battle to address a historical injustice. As per a treaty signed in May, Mauritius will gain sovereignty over the islands, while allowing the US and UK to continue operating a military base on Diego Garcia for 99 years.
In a speech delivered in French, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of respecting all individuals’ identity and rights, particularly their right to live on their own land without being forced into exile. The pope highlighted the value of the refugees’ potential return to their native archipelago as a profound symbol on the global stage. The islands were initially purchased by the UK in 1968 for £3m, but Mauritius argued that it was coerced into relinquishing them to gain independence from Britain.
Under the terms of the agreement, the UK will pay Mauritius an average of £101m annually for 99 years. The deal includes a demilitarized zone around Diego Garcia, where no construction can take place without UK approval. The treaty also prohibits foreign military and civilian forces from accessing other islands in the archipelago, with the UK retaining veto power over any such access. The agreement awaits approval from both the UK and Mauritian parliaments before it comes into effect.
Despite criticism from UK opposition leaders and some residing Chagossians, the Conservatives defended the deal, describing it as essential for national security. The prime minister emphasized the importance of preventing other nations, like China, from establishing bases or conducting joint exercises near Diego Garcia. Mauritian Attorney General Gavin Glover welcomed the agreement, noting that the country is thrilled to bring an end to the 60-year struggle. Despite a legal challenge from two Diego Garcia-born women seeking to return, the High Court dismissed the challenge, allowing the agreement to proceed as planned
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