The British measure was celebrated in Argentina, as it sets a precedent and could influence an order for the Malvinas.
He UK announcement on deal with Mauritiuswhich implies the transfer of sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelagogenerated a quick response from Argentina. This agreement, which addresses a claim dating back to 1968which raised questions about whether it could serve as a precedent for the case of the Falkland Islands, issue for which Argentina already complained.
From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of Argentinathe pact was concluded that recognizes the sovereignty of Mauritius over the islands, including Diego García, where a British and American military base is located. This agreement is the result of two years of negotiations, in which Argentina played a relevant role by participating in the Advisory Opinion issued by the International Court of Justice.
Historical context and dispute over territory
The dispute over Chagos Archipelago goes back to the 1960s and 1970speriod during which the United Kingdom expelled the native population of the islands to establish the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIT), even though Mauritius had achieved its independence in 1968. This act was considered a crime against humanity according to various international organizations.
Despite the resolutions of the UN and court rulings urging the United Kingdom to return the islands, the British government initially dismissed these rulings, arguing that the court’s decision International Court of Justice was merely a “advisory opinion”.
Negotiations to end this controversy began in 2022, and although there were attempts to interrupt them on the grounds that the Chagossians were not consulted, Those efforts were not successful..
The agreement reached today represents a relevant advance in the resolution of this prolonged colonial conflict. As the situation develops, The international community is expected to pay greater attention to territorial claims in the context of decolonization and people’s rights, which could influence other similar cases, such as that of the Malvinas.
This new development could also open a path for broader and more constructive dialogue between the nations involved, promoting an approach that favors justice and respect for affected populations.
Source: Ambito
