Maldives seeks 'meaningful' talks with UK over Chagos Islands sovereignty

Maldives has requested 'meaningful' negotiations with the UK regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, following the May 2025 UK-Mauritius agreement to transfer control of the archipelago. The Maldives' move introduces a new claimant to the dispute, potentially complicating the transfer process. The outcome could affect regional geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean, including strategic military bases.