MDP Criticises Government’s Diplomatic Approach Amid India Visit
The President of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Abdulla Shahid, has criticised the incumbent administration for what he described as its naivety and inexperience in diplomacy.
His comments come as President Dr Mohamed Muizzu embarks on a five-day state visit to India, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations.
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Happy to see the age-old ties between the Maldives-India being revived.
Thank you India for remaining steadfast and resolute with the Maldivian people.
Encouraged that the projects and initiatives launched during President @ibusolih‘s administration has come to fruition, and…— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) October 7, 2024
Shahid, who previously served as the Maldives’ top diplomat during the MDP administration, remarked that the current government is beginning to understand that international relations cannot be based on falsehoods.
The People’s National Congress (PNC), led by President Muizzu, campaigned in the 2023 presidential elections on an ‘India Out’ platform, alleging that the previous MDP administration had entered into secret agreements with India that jeopardised Maldives’ security and sovereignty.
Since taking office, President Muizzu has demanded the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives, a pledge made during his campaign. Relations between Male’ and New Delhi were further strained following disparaging comments made by three Maldivian deputy ministers about India and Prime Minister Modi, in response to a social media promotion of Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.
The Maldivian Foreign Ministry swiftly distanced itself from these remarks, stating that they did not reflect the government’s views, leading to the suspension of the three junior ministers. Two of them, Mariyam Shiuna and Malsha Shareef, resigned ahead of the current state visit.
Despite these tensions, both nations have expressed a commitment to maintaining relations, with several high-level visits taking place recently.
In a post on X, Shahid expressed his satisfaction with the revival of the long-standing ties between the Maldives and India, thanking New Delhi for its steadfastness. He reiterated his concerns about the current administration’s diplomatic skills, stating, “What we are seeing is the Administration’s naivety and inexperience in diplomacy.” Shahid also praised the continuation of projects initiated during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
During the visit, Muizzu and Modi launched India’s RuPay card in the Maldives, inaugurated a new runway at Hanimaadhoo Airport, and renewed cooperation agreements with the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Judicial Service Commission, and on sports and youth empowerment. They discussed the establishment of an Indian consulate in Addu City and cooperation on the Uthuru Thila Falhu project, both of which had been opposed by the PNC during its time in opposition.
Shahid commented on these developments, stating, “It is also heartening that the Consulate of India to be opened in Addu City has received positive consideration by the Government—despite their supposed objections while in opposition.” He expressed hopes for the continued positive trajectory of Maldives-India relations.
