International Experts Hired to Investigate Maritime Territory of Maldives

In a move to address maritime concerns tied to the Chagos Islands, the Maldivian government has engaged the expertise of foreign specialists for an in-depth examination of the sea area crucially affected by previous territorial divisions.

Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the Principal Secretary to the President on Public Policy, announced during a press conference that a King’s Council from the UK and a distinguished professor specialising in Law of the Sea from Malta have been appointed for this pivotal task.

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The focus of this study is the sea area encompassing the Chagos Islands, and the Maldivian government aims to gain comprehensive insights into the implications of previous divisions. The Maltese professor is scheduled to visit the Maldives and deliver insights to the Cabinet, while the UK report is expected next month, as stated by Nazim. The final comprehensive report, highlighting details about the Chagos-linked sea area, is anticipated to be submitted to the Cabinet by the end of February.

To oversee and manage the process, a specialized committee has been formed, headed by former Attorney General Mohamed Anil, with Colonel Ahmed Mujuthaba and Secretary Multilateral Ahmed Shiaan as key members. This committee will play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of the maritime territory study linked to the Chagos Islands.

Details regarding the expenses associated with hiring these foreign experts and the specifics of the Chagos-linked sea area will be disclosed shortly, ensuring transparency in the process.

In the division of Chagos Islands, Maldives received a total of 47,232 square kilometres out of the 92,000 square kilometres bordering Mauritius. Mauritius, on the other hand, was allocated 45,331 square kilometres, with a ratio of 0.960 square kilometres for every square kilometre received by the Maldives.