Mauritius has suspended diplomatic relations with the Maldives, citing Malé’s refusal to recognize Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Islands
According to a statement from Mauritius’ foreign affairs ministry, the Maldives said it “no longer recognizes the sovereignty of the Republic of Mauritius over the Chagos Archipelago” and objected to the agreement between Mauritius and the United Kingdom
Mauritius said the move reflects its commitment to safeguarding national interests and upholding sovereignty, the UN Charter, international law, and regional stability
Dispute Over the Chagos Archipelago
UK–Mauritius agreement under scrutiny
The disagreement follows a deal signed last year between the UK and Mauritius concerning the future of the Chagos Archipelago, officially known as the British Indian Ocean Territory
Under the agreement, the UK would cede sovereignty of the territory to Mauritius while leasing back a joint UK–US military base on the largest island
However, US President Donald Trump recently urged London to scrap the deal
The Maldives has expressed objections to the proposed transfer and sought direct talks with the UK regarding the issue
Competing Claims
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu recently stated that the Maldives holds a stronger historical and legal claim to the territory than Mauritius
The diplomatic rift marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two Indian Ocean nations over control of the strategically located island chain
Source: TRT Africa
