China Congratulates Mauritius on £30bn Chagos Islands Sovereignty Deal

Sir Keir Starmer is facing intense criticism for falsely claiming that China opposed the UK’s recent agreement to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Contrary to his statements, China has openly congratulated Mauritius on the deal, with the Chinese ambassador describing it as a "massive achievement" and expressing full support for Mauritius's sovereignty claims. This revelation undermines Starmer's narrative that opposition to the deal aligned with hostile states like Russia, China, and Iran, leading Conservative figures to demand a formal apology. The deal involves the UK paying Mauritius billions over 99 years while leasing back the strategically important Diego Garcia military base. Critics also argue that the arrangement benefits China, as Mauritius is set to join Beijing’s Belt and Road initiative, signaling increased Chinese influence in the region. The controversy highlights concerns over national security and the political framing of the Chagos Islands deal.