The Maldivian government has formally declared its rejection of the agreement through which the United Kingdom intends to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu asserted that from historical and cultural perspectives, the Maldives possesses a significantly greater claim over these islands. He emphasized that should the sovereignty of the archipelago be transferred to any nation, it must be to the Maldives. The President further stated that his administration would pursue all available legal avenues under international law to address this matter.
While the Maldives has officially requested formal discussions with the United Kingdom regarding this issue, the current administration has already rescinded the letter previously sent by the former government to the Prime Minister of Mauritius. Additionally, a decision has been made to establish a Presidential Commission to investigate officials who allegedly neglected the protection of Maldivian interests during the legal proceedings initiated by Mauritius in international courts. Following these developments, Mauritius has opted to suspend its diplomatic relations with the Maldives.
