Former Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has sharply criticized the current administration for its inconsistent stance on key India-backed initiatives, accusing it of reversing positions it held while in opposition. In a recent statement, Shahid pointed out the government's adoption of several projects it had previously opposed, raising concerns about its diplomatic inexperience.
Shahid specifically highlighted the launch of the RuPay Card, the inauguration of the Hanimaadhoo Airport runway, and the continuation of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on anti-corruption, judicial services, and youth programs. These initiatives, introduced under former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration, are now being advanced despite earlier resistance from the ruling party.
The former minister also mentioned the government's acceptance of the Indian Consulate in Addu City, a move that had faced strong objections while they were in opposition. Similarly, the administration’s sudden approval of the UTF project, which enhances the Maldives National Defence Force’s (MNDF) operational capabilities through Indian support, reflects a significant policy reversal.
Shahid did not hold back in his criticism, stating, "What we are witnessing is a government that has come to realize international relations cannot be based on lies and deceit." He accused the administration of lacking the diplomatic maturity needed for consistent foreign policy, calling out their "naivety" in managing international relations.
Despite the criticism, Shahid expressed hope that the Maldives would continue to foster positive ties with India, emphasizing the importance of the relationship with its "closest neighbor, friend, and partner." However, his comments underscored deeper concerns about the government's erratic approach to key national interests.
Shahid specifically highlighted the launch of the RuPay Card, the inauguration of the Hanimaadhoo Airport runway, and the continuation of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on anti-corruption, judicial services, and youth programs. These initiatives, introduced under former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration, are now being advanced despite earlier resistance from the ruling party.
The former minister also mentioned the government's acceptance of the Indian Consulate in Addu City, a move that had faced strong objections while they were in opposition. Similarly, the administration’s sudden approval of the UTF project, which enhances the Maldives National Defence Force’s (MNDF) operational capabilities through Indian support, reflects a significant policy reversal.
Shahid did not hold back in his criticism, stating, "What we are witnessing is a government that has come to realize international relations cannot be based on lies and deceit." He accused the administration of lacking the diplomatic maturity needed for consistent foreign policy, calling out their "naivety" in managing international relations.
Happy to see the age-old ties between the Maldives-India being revived.
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) October 7, 2024
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…
Despite the criticism, Shahid expressed hope that the Maldives would continue to foster positive ties with India, emphasizing the importance of the relationship with its "closest neighbor, friend, and partner." However, his comments underscored deeper concerns about the government's erratic approach to key national interests.
