President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced the establishment of a dedicated office to handle matters related to national territories, stating that maritime decisions taken by the previous administration caused irreparable harm to the State.

Speaking during the Presidential Address 2026, President addressed the United Kingdom’s decision to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago, known locally as Foalhavahi, to Mauritius, describing it as a matter of serious concern for the Maldives. He said the Government formally submitted written objections to the United Kingdom on 8 November 2024 and 18 January 2026, expressing its rejection of the decision.

He also said that during a telephone call on 15 December 2025 with Deputy Minister of the United Kingdom David Lammy, the Maldives conveyed its request for further consultations on the issue. In addition, the Government has informed the government of Mauritius and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) of its strong opposition to any Mauritian economic activities in the Chagos region that could negatively affect Maldivian fisheries and tourism.

On the maritime boundary dispute with Mauritius, the President announced that legal proceedings have begun to recover maritime territory lost following a ruling by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. He confirmed the decision to rescind a letter sent by the former president to the Mauritian Prime Minister on 22 August 2022.

The President said the dedicated office will be created following advice from international legal experts who assessed the long-term implications of those decisions. He also announced the formation of a Commission of Inquiry under Article 115 (o) of the Constitution to investigate the motives behind the decisions, determine legal accountability where required, and develop safeguards to prevent similar actions in the future.

Referring to the archipelagic baselines established under the Maritime Zones Act, the President reaffirmed that the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone remains as defined by law, including the disputed maritime area.

Turning to national defence, the President said the Government is working to double the operational capacity of the Coast Guard. He announced that 17 additional interceptor craft and a new naval vessel will be commissioned this year, while funding has been secured for two harbour craft patrol vessels.

The President also said the second MNDF Air Station, located in Shaviyani Funadhoo, will become operational this year. He added that priority will be given throughout 2026 to strengthening fire and rescue services, emergency response capabilities, logistics, personnel accommodation, and administrative governance.

In his address, President Dr Muizzu stated the Maldives will not relinquish even the smallest portion of its land or territory.