Malé, Maldives – The government of Maldives today released a statement saying that the allegations regarding ties with one of the country’s key bilateral partners are misguided and unsubstantiated.
The statement read that the Government of Maldives strongly rejects attempts to spread false information through media and across social media platforms, using the so-called “India Out” slogan, alleging that bilateral cooperation between the Governments of Maldives and India undermines the national security and sovereignty of Maldives.
The Government reaffirmed that the country’s long-standing ties with all its international partners are based on principles of mutual respect and understanding, and in accordance with respective national and international law. Adding that such international relations are designed to enhance the Maldives’ national interests, and deliver for the people of the Maldives.
Relations [such as those with India] will not undermine the Maldives’ independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The statement further added that the strong bilateral relationship between the Maldives and India is based on shared historical and cultural ties, matched by dynamic people to people contact. India has always been the Maldives’ closest ally and trusted neighbour, extending constant and consistent support to the people of Maldives on all fronts.
These views [India Out] are not the sentiments of the general public, but rather that of a small group of individuals with the objective of tarnishing the country’s long-standing cordial ties with India.
The Maldives government noted the cooperation and support provided by the Government of India, specifically on issues of maritime security, is aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries and to ensure the safety and stability of the Indian Ocean region. Support provided by India, on areas such as search and rescue capabilities, casualty evacuation, coastal surveillance, and maritime reconnaissance, directly benefit the Maldivian people. The Government of Maldives has also established partnerships with other countries in similar areas of cooperation, to enhance technical and strategic capacities.
“Addressing the ever-growing threats of trans-boarder terrorism, piracy, narco-trafficking as well as non-traditional security threats such as climate change, cyber security and human trafficking, requires the support and cooperation of all regional and international partners. No one country alone can address these issues on its own,” read the statement.
The Government of Maldives urged all parties including the media to act responsibly, and refrain from spreading false information that undermines the country’s relations with its neighbours, and the international community.
