Nasheed Warns Closer Pakistan Military Ties Risk Straining Relations With India
MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed — Photo: MDP
Former President, MPD Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed has warned that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to expand military cooperation with Pakistan could compromise the Maldives’ national security and heighten concerns in neighbouring India.
Nasheed made the remarks in a post on X following the signing of a defence cooperation agreement between the Maldives and Pakistan during Muizzu’s state visit to the country.
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“Due to the policies of President Dr. Muizzu, the safety and security of the Maldives is being compromised,” Nasheed said.
Raees Dr. Muizzu ge siyaasath thakuge sababun Raajjeyge salaamathaai rakkaatherikan midhanee gellemun. Vaadhaveri Qaum thakuge dhebasvun thakuge thereah Raajje vadhegen nuvaane. Pakistan aai eku military gulhun thah fulhaa kurumakee India ge kanboduvun ithuru vaane kameh. Raajje ah nurakkaa vaane kameh.— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) October 23, 2026
He warned that the Maldives should not become entangled in disputes between rival nations, adding that closer military ties with Pakistan would increase India’s concerns and put the country at risk.
Nasheed’s criticism follows the exchange of 20 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the Maldives and Pakistan on 21 October, covering areas including defence, maritime security, policing, education, healthcare, trade and investment.
During the visit, Muizzu also met Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The two sides discussed regional security and opportunities to strengthen defence cooperation.
