Sir Keir Starmer presses Mauritius on want for Chagos Islands deal to guard UK-US navy base | Politics Information

The prime minister has pressed Mauritius on the necessity for the Chagos Islands deal to permit “strong protections” for the UK-US navy base there.

Sir Keir Starmer spoke to his Mauritian counterpart on Friday afternoon, Downing Road stated.

Throughout their dialog, the Labour chief instructed Navin Ramgoolam he wished “strong protections” for the UK-US navy base on Diego Garcia as talks handy them over to Mauritius proceed.

This marked the primary time the 2 leaders have spoken instantly since they each got here to energy.

It got here after Mr Ramgoolam beforehand ordered an impartial overview of his predecessor’s provisional cope with the UK, quickly after coming to energy.

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Giving a readout of the decision, a Downing Road spokesperson stated: “The prime minister spoke to the prime minister of Mauritius Navin Ramgoolam this afternoon.

“The leaders started by reflecting on their first months in workplace and mentioned the robust relationship between the UK and Mauritius, which they regarded ahead to increasing.

“The prime minister underlined the necessity for a deal to safe the navy base on Diego Garcia that ensures robust protections, together with from malign affect, and that may enable the bottom to proceed to function.

“Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a deal, and they looked forward to speaking again soon.”

Since 2022, when the Conservatives have been in energy, the UK has been negotiating a cope with Mauritius handy over management of the Chagos archipelago.

The brand new authorities has continued the talks with the intention of retaining management of the navy base.

The UK plans to lease again the strategically necessary base for 99 years at a reported annual value of round £90m.

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