Argentina has expressed its determination to achieve “full sovereignty” over the Falkland Islands following the UK’s relinquishment of control over a remote archipelago in exchange for safeguarding a strategically vital military base. Diana Mondino, Argentina’s foreign minister, commended the move made by Sir Keir Starmer’s Government to end “outdated practices” after Britain returned the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Mondino pledged to take “concrete action” to ensure the transfer of the Falklands, known as the Malvinas by Argentina, from British control to Buenos Aires. She asserted, “The Malvinas were, are and will always be Argentine.”
In response to escalating criticism within the Conservative Party regarding the UK-Mauritius agreement, Mondino emphasised the importance of the return of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Falklands’ governor Alison Blake sought to assure residents of the territory of Britain’s unwavering commitment, highlighting the distinct historical contexts of the two territories. The UK Government announced a political settlement with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands, known as the British Indian Ocean Territory, after negotiations that commenced in 2022. Under the agreement, Mauritius will acquire sovereignty over the archipelago while allowing the joint US-UK military base to continue on Diego Garcia, the largest island.
US President Joe Biden welcomed the agreement, describing it as “historic” and ensuring the effective operation of the joint facility for the foreseeable future. Although the deal received diverse reactions, with some welcoming the resolution of a longstanding dispute while others, including Tory leadership candidates, voiced concerns about potential security implications. Human rights advocates stressed the need for full reparations for the Chagossians who were forcefully displaced from the territory in the 1970s to accommodate the military base. The International Court of Justice had previously deemed the UK’s administration of the territory as “unlawful.”
The shadow of the Falklands War continues to loom over UK-Argentine relations, with Argentina’s 1982 invasion and historical claim to the islands inherited from Spain in the 1800s. The conflict resulted in casualties on both sides before British forces regained control. The UK and Mauritius governments announced that the new agreement will address past wrongs and demonstrate their commitment to supporting the welfare of the Chagossians. The agreement regarding the continued presence of the UK-US military on Diego Garcia is expected to last for 99 years, with options for renewal.
While the deal’s financial details are yet to be fully disclosed, former ministers, including Robert Jenrick and James Cleverly, criticised the move as weakening Britain’s strategic interests. Concerns were raised about the potential implications of surrendering control over the territory in the Indian Ocean, with fears of enabling China to gain a military foothold. The agreement also touches on the current situation of asylum seekers on Diego Garcia, whose claims for protection are being considered by the British Indian Ocean Territory.
In conclusion, Argentina’s assertion of sovereignty over the Falklands is a significant development in the ongoing geopolitical landscape, following the UK’s arrangement with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands. The intricate balance of historical claims, security considerations, and human rights implications will continue to shape the discourse surrounding these territories and their future status.