President Muizzu Challenges UK Chagos Deal, Says Maldives Has Stronger Claim to “Foalhavahi”

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has formally raised the Maldives' sovereignty claim over the Chagos Islands, historically known as Foalhavahi, arguing that the Maldives is geographically closer, historically connected, and legally better placed than Mauritius. The Maldivian Government contacted the British Government via official correspondence. This intervention comes as the UK moves to recognize Mauritian sovereignty over Chagos while maintaining operational control of Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease, paying Mauritius around £101 million annually. President Muizzu told Express.co.uk that "Britain is fully aware of our concerns."

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has formally raised the Maldives' sovereignty claim over the Chagos Islands, historically known as Foalhavahi, arguing that the Maldives is geographically closer, historically connected, and legally better placed than Mauritius. The Maldivian Government contacted the British Government via official correspondence. This intervention comes as the UK moves to recognize Mauritian sovereignty over Chagos while maintaining operational control of Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease, paying Mauritius around £101 million annually. President Muizzu told Express.co.uk that "Britain is fully aware of our concerns."

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has formally raised the Maldives' sovereignty claim over the Chagos Islands, historically known as Foalhavahi, arguing that the Maldives is geographically closer, historically connected, and legally better placed than Mauritius. The Maldivian Government contacted the British Government via official correspondence. This intervention comes as the UK moves to recognize Mauritian sovereignty over Chagos while maintaining operational control of Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease, paying Mauritius around £101 million annually. President Muizzu told Express.co.uk that "Britain is fully aware of our concerns."

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of chagos islands / sovereignty.