President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that territorial matters concerning Chagos will be addressed in line with the Administration’s 'Maldives First' Policy.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, President Dr Muizzu said that if the British government decides to transfer the Chagos territory to any country, the Maldives would be the only nation with a legitimate claim.

The President said there is substantial historical evidence linking Chagos to the Maldives. He referred to a 16th century letter from Sultan Hassan IX, accompanied by a chart, as documentation supporting the Maldives’ position. He added that Chagos is historically connected to the Maldives in numerous ways and maintained that no other party holds a stronger claim to the territory.

President Dr Muizzu stated the Government is pursuing the matter through appropriate international legal channels and established mechanisms, while continuing engagement with the British government. He also revealed that a special committee has been formed to address efforts to reclaim what he described as lost maritime boundary areas.

Commenting on Mauritius’ decision to sever diplomatic ties with the Maldives, the President said the decision was taken without consultation and reiterated that Mauritius does not hold a legitimate claim over the territory in question.