The prime minister of Mauritius has called for a closer relationship with China, but insisted he would not allow Beijing to take control of the Chagos Islands.

The UK must hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, even if Donald Trump scuttles the current proposed agreement, the Mauritian prime minister has said. Navin Ramgoolam has demanded that deal or no deal, the Chagos Islands should return to Mauritian control.

Mauritius is in “no rush” to secure a Chagos Islands deal with the UK and is still pushing for more money, officials have told The Telegraph.

UK Halts Chagos Islands Deal as US Review Looms The UK government has paused its plans to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The decision comes as the US prepares to review the implications of the deal for its key military base,