Both countries have reached a historic political agreement to hand over Chagos Islands to Mauritius (Still subject to finalization of a treaty). 

• While US-UK base will remain on Diego Garcia atoll.

About Chagos Archipelago

• It is an island group, located 500 km south of Maldives in Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Uninhabited until 18th century, later French colonized it. French ceded island to British in 1814.
• British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT): Formed by UK in 1965, with Chagos as a central part.
  • Some BIOT islands were ceded to Seychelles in 1976.
• Archipelago was detached from Mauritius by UK in 1965, three years before Mauritius gained independence.

Significance of Treaty

• Addressing colonial legacy: Ends a long-standing dispute over last British colony in Africa.
• Regional Security Dynamics: As Mauritius may seek to balance its relations with major powers.
• Security Importance: Diego Garcia base allows US to monitor Malacca Strait, crucial for global trade, and maintain its presence in IOR.
• Compliance with International Law: Handing over island is aligned with judgment of International Court of Justice In 2019 & UNGA resolution in 2019.
  • India supported Mauritius' claim by voting in its favor at UNGA in 2019
    • It was in line with India’s “principled stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations”.