Gov’t Highlights Challenges in Reversing ITLOS Decision on Disputed Maritime Territory

The Attorney General’s Office has outlined the hurdles faced in overturning the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) ruling concerning the disputed maritime territory between Maldives and Mauritius.

Following ITLOS’s decision last year regarding the disputed southern territory of the Maldives, criticism from opposition parties ensued, with accusations of governmental negligence in safeguarding the nation’s interests.

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Addressing these concerns, the current administration had pledged to appeal the ruling and reclaim the lost maritime territory.

In a statement issued today, the Attorney General’s Office acknowledged the significant challenges in the ongoing efforts to regain control of the lost sea. According to reports from legal experts and the Committee, the previous government’s actions were deemed irresponsible, resulting in a failure to adequately defend the Maldives’ interests.

Specifically, the statement highlighted the omission of crucial defenses necessary to protect the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the southern sea.

Moreover, the Attorney General’s Office emphasized that the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice, which influenced ITLOS’s decision, lacked binding authority under international law. Additionally, legal experts raised concerns regarding the unresolved nature of Mauritius’ claim to the disputed territorial sea.

The AG’s office further disclosed that discussions are underway within the Cabinet and with relevant authorities to determine the next steps in addressing the case.

Efforts to reverse the ITLOS ruling face complexities exacerbated by the previous government’s alleged negligence, as highlighted by the Attorney General’s Office.