Ankara: Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has called on British Prime Minister Andrew Burnham to engage in discussions regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, as stated by the Maldives' presidential office on Tuesday. Muizzu emphasized the necessity of "meaningful dialogue" between the UK and Maldives concerning the archipelago's sovereignty, while voicing apprehension over the UK's decision to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.

According to Anadolu Agency, in May 2025, the UK and Mauritius reached an agreement to hand over sovereignty of the Indian Ocean archipelago to Mauritius, concluding over two centuries of British administration. This deal allows the US and UK to continue operating the Diego Garcia military base, a site of strategic importance, for the next 99 years. The Maldives, however, opposes this UK-Mauritius agreement, which awaits domestic ratification and has not yet come into effect.

Muizzu underscored the historical and cultural connections shared between the Maldives and Chagos, as well as the Maldives' enduring support for marine conservation and scientific research in the area. He reiterated the Maldives' dedication to fostering a dependable and cooperative relationship with the United Kingdom on matters related to Chagos, while protecting the Maldivian state's and people's legitimate interests.

Muizzu expressed optimism that renewed cooperation between the Maldives and the UK would enhance stability and security in the Indian Ocean, especially amidst rising global uncertainties. The Chagos Archipelago, consisting of seven atolls with over 60 islands in the central Indian Ocean, is located approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles) south of the Maldives.