The United Kingdom has finally announced that it is relinquishing sovereignty of Chagos Islands, a remote but strategically important cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius, after more than half a century of being in charge.

The deal, which was reached after years of negotiations, will see the UK hand over the Chagos Islands which includes the tropical atoll of Diego Garcia, used by the US government as a military base for its navy ships and long-range bomber aircraft, to the African country.

The announcement, made in a joint statement by the UK and Mauritian Prime Ministers, brings to an end decades of often fractious negotiations between the two countries.

Though the deal is still subject to finalisation of a treaty, both sides have promised to complete it as quickly as possible.

“This is a seminal moment in our relationship and a demonstration of our enduring commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes and the rule of law,” a joint statement signed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth read.

The two leaders also said they were committed “to ensure the long-term, secure and effective operation of the existing base on Diego Garcia which plays a vital role in regional and global security”.

The treaty will also “address wrongs of the past and demonstrate the commitment of both parties to support the welfare of Chagossians,” the statement said, adding that the UK will provide a package of financial support to Mauritius, including annual payments and infrastructure investment.

Mauritius on the other hand, will also be able to begin a programme of resettlement on the Chagos Islands, but not on Diego Garcia as the US-UK military base will still be in operation for an initial period of 99 years.

In recent years, the UK has faced rising diplomatic isolation over its claim to what it refers to as the British Indian Ocean Territory, with various United Nations bodies, including its top court and general assembly, overwhelmingly siding with Mauritius and demanding the UK surrender what some have called its “last colony in Africa”.

The government of Mauritius has long argued that it was illegally forced to give the Chagos Islands away in return for its own independence from the UK in 1968.

Britain later apologised for forcibly removing more than 1,000 islanders from the entire archipelago and promised to hand the islands to Mauritius when they were no longer needed for strategic purposes.

Congolese music star, Gaz Mawete, was the star of the moment when he gave an electrifying performance at the La Cigale concert in Paris before a sold-out crowd which has further solidified his place as one of Africa’s most dynamic musical talents.

The concert which held on Sunday in the French capital afforded Mawete another opportunity to showcase his immense talent to the world as well as portray African music to the French audience.

The concert was part of Mawete’s ongoing efforts to expand his presence in European and African markets and according to the artiste, he plans to continue performing across Europe while preparing for major African shows.

“Known for his unique fusion of rumba, R&B, and soul, Mawete delivered a night to remember, with fans showing up in large numbers to support the artist,” a French entertainment tabloid wrote after the performance.

Speaking on the event, Mawete said:

“The concert featured several special guests, much to the delight of the audience, and highlighted the deep sense of community within the Congolese music scene. The public came out in full force, and the support from my guest artists was incredibly touching. It was a special night for me.”

One of the night’s highlights was the appearance of fellow Congolese superstar Fally Ipupa, whose presence on stage was a moment of pride for Mawete.

“Fally coming to my concert was an honor. It shows that he appreciates and respects what I do. He’s someone I look up to, like a big brother, and seeing him there filled me with gratitude,” said Mawete.

Mawete also hinted at an upcoming performance at the legendary Martyrs Stadium, one of the most prestigious venues for Congolese artists.

“Performing at the Martyrs Stadium is a dream for any Congolese artist. If the audience shows up, it will prove that all the hard work has been worth it,” Mawete, who recently released a self-titled EP, said.

“I’m so grateful to my fans who have been with me every step of the way. You are my fuel, and without you, I am nothing,” he added.