Malé, Maldives – There are no armed forces of any other country in any part of the Maldives, says the Defence Ministry of Maldives.
This comes in response to a recent statement by former President of Maldives Abdullah Yameen Abdul Qayyoom, who in an “India Out” campaign event held in ADh. Mahibadhoo on 11th March, said that the Indian military personnel stationed across various parts of the country are armed, and that the government has approved importing weapons for the Indian soldiers stationed in Uthuru Thilafalhu.
In a statement released by the Ministry, it was reiterated that there are no armed foreign military personnel in any parts of the country, including the Uthuru Thilafalhu area.
The statement also urged not to spread false narratives which are aimed at disregarding the integrity of the the Maldivian soldiers.
Additionally, the Ministry reassured the public that the Maldivian National Defense Force will remain steadfast in the upholding of the safety and freedom of the country.
The India Out campaign is a physical and online campaign against Indian army presence in the Maldives, which is participated by other parties of the opposition coalition as well.
