US Supports UK Mauritius Deal during 3 Day Security Summit Starting February 23

The United States has formally reaffirmed its backing for the sovereignty agreement between the United Kingdom and Mauritius regarding the Chagos Archipelago, as officials prepare for high-level security talks in the Mauritian capital.

From 23 to 25 February, delegates from Washington and Port Louis will convene to discuss bilateral security cooperation, focusing heavily on the strategic preservation of the joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia.

Guaranteeing Long-Term Operations

The upcoming summit, led by the US State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, aims to solidify the operational future of the Indian Ocean installations. According to official documentation, the talks will address:

• The implementation of security frameworks surrounding the base.
• Bilateral cooperation to ensure the “long-term functioning” of military assets.
• The continued importance of the Chagos Archipelago to US national security.

Diplomatic Alignment

Washington has explicitly voiced its support for the UK’s decision to pursue its treaty with Mauritius.

To safeguard its strategic interests, the US government also intends to conclude a bilateral agreement with London to ensure the “continued use of the facilities and infrastructure” located within the archipelago.

Regional Stability

The US State Department underscored that this diplomatic engagement is designed to bolster national security while fostering broader stability across the Indian Ocean.

Representatives from various US federal agencies are expected to participate in the three-day dialogue.

Source: Le Mauricien