**Maldives Requests UK to Reopen Sovereignty Talks Over Chagos Islands**
In a significant diplomatic move, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has formally requested UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham to reopen discussions regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. The appeal comes in light of the UK government's previous decision to transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius, a move that has raised concerns in the Maldives.
In a statement issued by the Maldives presidential office, President Muizzu underscored the necessity for “meaningful dialogue” between the UK and the Maldives concerning the Chagos archipelago. He expressed disappointment that the UK did not consult the Maldives prior to finalizing the agreement with Mauritius, which was concluded under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer in May 2025.
The Chagos Islands, located approximately 500 kilometers from the Maldives, are home to Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. This island is strategically important as it hosts a military base leased to the United States under a 99-year agreement. The Maldives government argues that its geographical proximity and historical ties to the Chagos Islands bolster its claim over the territory, especially when compared to Mauritius, which is situated over four times farther away.
In his letter, President Muizzu expressed concerns regarding the UK’s decision to proceed with the handover of the islands to Mauritius. He called for Prime Minister Burnham to “rectify this oversight” made by his predecessor, emphasizing the shared history and cultural connections between the Maldives and the Chagos Islands. Muizzu also highlighted the Maldives' ongoing commitment to marine conservation and scientific research in the region, which he believes strengthens its case for sovereignty.
The backdrop to this diplomatic request includes the complex history surrounding the Chagos Islands. The UK has maintained control over the archipelago since the 1960s, following the removal of its inhabitants, who were relocated to facilitate the establishment of the military base on Diego Garcia. The sovereignty of the islands has been a contentious issue, with Mauritius long asserting its claim over the territory.
Last April, the UK government temporarily set aside the agreement to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius, largely due to a lack of support from the United States, particularly during the Trump administration. The US has expressed interest in retaining its military presence on Diego Garcia, which has further complicated the sovereignty discussions.
A spokesperson from the UK’s Foreign Office reiterated that the question of sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago is primarily a matter for the UK and Mauritius. The spokesperson noted that negotiations regarding the issue were initiated with Mauritius in 2022, rather than with the Maldives.
As the situation develops, the Maldives' request for renewed dialogue highlights the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play in the Indian Ocean region. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the future of the Chagos Islands and the strategic military interests of both the UK and the US in the area.