On Wednesday, New Delhi: Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu expressed regret over the former minister's negative statements regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which have now caused tension between India and the Maldives. "Nobody should say such things," Muizzu said, seeking to improve the strained relationship.
This was the first public response by President Muizzu to the controversial remarks that strained ties between India and the Maldives. "Nobody should say such things. I took action against it," he said, referring to the dismissal of the minister who made negative comments about PM Modi on social media, according to Maldivian news portal adhadhu.com.
Muizzu Denies 'India Out', Agenda
Speaking during his US trip for the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, President Muizzu told Princeton University's "Dean's Leadership Series" yesterday that: "I have never had an "India Out" agenda. The Maldives has a serious problem where foreign military presence is reportedly allowed on the land.".
Maldives President Issued Clarification
President Muizzu clarified that the Maldives has never opposed any specific country, saying, "It's not about India Out." He explained that the problem lies with having foreign military forces in the country because this is an important issue for the country. He said, "The people of the country do not want a single foreign soldier in the country," the adhadhu.com news portal of the Maldives said.
Relations between India and the Maldives turned sour after President Muizzu, a China cornered politician, became president last November. Muizzu asked India to pull back 90 Indian military men operating three aviation platforms New Delhi gave to the island nation as a gift. Before May 10, India had pulled out its military staff but made up with civilian personnel to operate a Dornier aircraft and two helicopters.
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