New Delhi: Acknowledging India’s responsible role while dealing diplomatic matters, former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed expressed his serious concern over recent developments between both the countries. Amid recent boycott call by a section in India, the ex-president issued apology on behalf of his country people. The Maldivian leader, who is recently in India, is always considered close to India and has been vocal for close diplomatic tie-up between the two countries.
Relations between both India and Maldives appeared affected as recently elected Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has been pressuring Indian military personnel from the country to leave. Recently, Muizzu announced plans to expel all Indian military personnel from the country by March 10. Since he is being considered a pro-China leader of the island nation, his move is being criticised from his own people. His move also escalated tensions and prompted a boycott call from India, impacting various sectors, notably tourism, a crucial component of the Maldivian economy.
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Nasheed, while talking to ANI said, “It has impacted the Maldives a lot, and I am actually here in India. I’m very worried about this. I want to say the people of the Maldives are sorry, we are sorry that this has happened. We want Indian people to come on their holidays to the Maldives, and there will not be any change in our hospitality.”
He said that when Muizzu wanted Indian military personnel to leave the island nation, India did not twist their arms. It did not display muscle but just simply told the government of Maldives, ‘Okay, let’s have a discussion on that. Nasheed said that India proposed a diplomatic discussion as it has always adopted a responsible approach instead of putting pressure on his country.
Regarding defence agreement between Maldives and China, the former Maldivian President said that it is not being a defence pact but rather an acquisition of equipment. “I think that Muizzu wanted to buy some equipment, mainly rubber bullets and tear gas. It is very unfortunate that the government thought that there is a need for more tear gas and more rubber bullets. Governance is not through the barrel of the gun,” he said.
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