The United Kingdom has officially agreed to cede its control over the Chagos Islands to the Republic of Mauritius in a historic agreement signed between the two nations. This decision marks a significant shift in sovereignty over the disputed territory.

The agreement, finalized on Thursday, signifies the UK’s acknowledgment of Mauritius’ rightful claim to the Chagos Islands. The move comes after years of legal battles and diplomatic discussions between the two countries.

The Chagos Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, have been a point of contention between the UK and Mauritius for decades. The territory has strategic importance due to its military base, Diego Garcia, which is leased to the United States.

The handover of sovereignty over the Chagos Islands represents a crucial development in international relations and sets a precedent for resolving territorial disputes through diplomatic means. The agreement is expected to have far-reaching implications for the region and beyond.