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Trump Backs Mauritius-China Deal, Alarms US-UK Ties

5/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mauritius is set to deepen its relationship with China, sparking alarm over a potential deal involving the Chagos Islands. Critics fear that increased Chinese influence may jeopardize military operations at the Diego Garcia base, complicating strategic efforts by the UK and US in the Indo-Pacific. Amidst this tension, Donald Trump backs the transfer of the islands to Mauritius, defying opposition from Tory MPs and Republicans.

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Story summary

Mauritius is set to deepen its relationship with China, sparking alarm over a potential deal involving the Chagos Islands. Critics fear that increased Chinese influence may jeopardize military operations at the Diego Garcia base, complicating strategic efforts by the UK and US in the Indo-Pacific. Amidst this tension, Donald Trump backs the transfer of the islands to Mauritius, defying opposition from Tory MPs and Republicans.