Burnham reaffirms Chagos handover commitment in Mauritius talks

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to do everything possible, together with the United States, to advance ratification of the treaty transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, following a phone call with Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam on Monday. A statement from Ramgoolam's office said Burnham reiterated his commitment to working towards ratification of the Chagos treaty, and noted that the United Kingdom recognises the need to ensure the use of the Diego Garcia military base for its security. Downing Street said the two prime ministers also agreed that their foreign ministers would meet at the United Nations General Assembly, which opens Tuesday. Speaking to reporters en route to New York, Burnham said he would work with Mauritius and the US to find a solution retaining control of Diego Garcia. He said he remained determined to secure the long-term operation of the base, which he described as crucial to the security of the UK and its allies, while acknowledging that no resolution currently exists.