The Maldivian government has welcomed the decision by the United Kingdom to suspend the process of handing over the sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius.

In a statement released today, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the Maldives' profound interest regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos islands. The Ministry noted that the suspension of the transfer presents an opportunity to renew discussions with the Maldives on the matter.

The statement called upon the UK government to work towards regional stability in the Indian Ocean in accordance with international law, while respecting the rights of the Maldives and supporting regional security.

The decision by the UK to pause the transfer comes after the Maldivian government officially notified the United Kingdom that it does not recognize the agreement to hand over the Chagos islands to Mauritius.

The Maldives formally registered its objections to the UK-Mauritius agreement through letters sent to the British government in November 2024 and January 2026.

Amidst the ongoing dispute over the Chagos Archipelago, Mauritius decided to suspend diplomatic relations with the Maldives on February 27th. However, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has maintained that even if political ties are severed, Mauritius does not have a legitimate claim to the Chagos islands.