The Government of Maldives has welcomed the United Kingdom’s decision to suspend plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, describing it as an opportunity to reopen discussions on the issue.
The UK government had previously introduced legislation in the House of Lords to hand over the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius. However, debate on the bill was adjourned following opposition from United States President Donald Trump, who publicly criticised the proposal.
According to media reports, the legislation is not expected to be included in the next parliamentary session, effectively pausing the process.
In a statement, the Maldivian government said the development provides an important opportunity to engage in discussions regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. It called for equal consideration of its position and emphasised the need to ensure its rights while maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean region.
The statement further noted that the Maldives maintains a historical claim to the Chagos archipelago, citing longstanding cultural and historical connections. It highlighted evidence such as Dhivehi-inscribed tombstones found in the islands, which closely resemble those discovered across the Maldives.
Authorities also referenced oral histories and historical records, including accounts of Maldivian travellers and fishermen in the islands, as well as a 16th-century letter from a Maldivian monarch asserting sovereignty over Chagos.
In addition, the government pointed to archaeological findings and genetic studies of the displaced Chagossian population, noting links to indigenous and Creole ancestry.
The Maldives said it remains committed to pursuing its position through dialogue and international engagement.