The United Kingdom’s decision to delay formalising its agreement with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands has been welcomed by the Maldives, which sees the pause as an opening to re-engage in discussions over the archipelago’s future.
In a statement, the Maldivian government said it welcomed the UK’s move to halt the transfer of sovereignty, describing it as an opportunity to revisit negotiations that include Maldivian interests. The government reiterated that it has a legitimate stake in the future status and governance of the Chagos Archipelago, locally referred to as Foalhavahi.
The agreement, signed in May 2025, had proposed transferring sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius while allowing the United Kingdom and the United States to continue operating a joint military base at Diego Garcia under a long-term lease. However, the absence of formal confirmation of support from the United States has stalled the process, with insufficient time to pass the required legislation before the dissolution of Parliament.
The Maldivian government’s response signals a continuation of its more assertive stance on the issue. After previously recognising Mauritian sovereignty, the Maldives has shifted its position and now maintains that it holds a legitimate claim to the archipelago, citing geographical proximity and historical links.
In its latest statement, the government called on the United Kingdom to pursue what it described as a fair and equitable outcome. It said any future arrangement should take into account the rights of the Maldives, support regional stability, align with international law, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Indian Ocean.
The pause in the agreement leaves the broader sovereignty dispute unresolved. Mauritius continues to assert its claim to the islands, while the Maldives’ position adds a further layer to what had largely been a bilateral matter. The delay also prolongs uncertainty over governance arrangements and the long-term framework for the strategically significant Diego Garcia base.
With no clear timeline for resuming the process, the issue remains open, with regional implications likely to shape the next phase of negotiations.
