Former President Mohamed Nasheed has stated that the Maldives has no reason to retreat following Mauritius’ decision to sever diplomatic relations, as tensions rise over the dispute concerning Chagos.

In a message shared in a WhatsApp group of tourism industry stakeholders, Nasheed said the Maldives must continue engaging with Mauritius on the Chagos issue. He maintained that, despite the diplomatic break, the country should not step back from asserting its position.

Mauritius’ Cabinet announced the decision yesterday, citing the Maldivian Government’s communication to the British Government that it does not recognise Mauritian sovereignty over Chagos.

The dispute has drawn renewed international attention. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has formally conveyed to the United Kingdom that the Maldives believes it holds sovereign rights over the southern atolls in question.

In the UK Parliament, Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, voiced support for the Maldives’ claim, arguing that the archipelago rightfully belongs to the Maldives rather than Mauritius.

Nasheed suggested that Mauritius’ move underscores the seriousness of the Maldives’ efforts to pursue its claim through legal, historical and geographical arguments.

The Maldivian Government has yet to issue an official statement in response to Mauritius’ decision.