MALE, Maldives – Former Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi criticized derogatory comments made against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the “short-sightedness” of the Maldives government. Didi emphasized the longstanding relationship between India and the Maldives, stating that India has always been a reliable ally and provided assistance in various sectors, including defense.
Speaking out against disparaging remarks, Didi asserted that India has been the “911 call” for the Maldives, consistently coming to their rescue in times of need. She expressed disappointment in the current administration’s attempt to undermine the strong relationship between the two countries, emphasizing that the Maldives and India share similar security concerns and values of democracy and human rights.
The recent row began when a Maldivian deputy minister, along with other cabinet members and government officials, made derogatory references to PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep. Didi expressed sadness and concern over such disparaging remarks about a friend like India, emphasizing the impact it could have on the friendship between the two nations.
Didi underscored the importance of maintaining the age-old relationship with India and highlighted the need to uphold international commitments. She called for the continuation of the “India first” policy, recognizing India as the nearest neighbor that has consistently provided support to the Maldives.
The former Maldives Defence Minister urged the Maldivian government to acknowledge the sentiments of the Maldivian people, pointing out instances where they sought medical treatment in India and received COVID-19 vaccines under Indian aid. She emphasized that replacing India as the closest neighbor is not feasible and would be detrimental to the Maldives.
Regarding Indian troops’ presence in the Maldives, Didi clarified that they have been there on the government’s request to help ensure the safety of Maldivian citizens. She explained that the equipment and helicopters provided by India are under the command and control of the Maldives National Defence Force.
The Maldivian government distanced itself from the derogatory remarks made by Minister Mariyam Shiuna, stating that her opinion does not reflect the government’s views. The government emphasized the importance of exercising freedom of expression in a democratic and responsible manner, without spreading hatred or negatively impacting relationships with international partners.
In summary, Former Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi criticized derogatory comments against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the strong and longstanding relationship between India and the Maldives. Didi expressed disappointment in the Maldives government’s attempt to undermine the relationship and emphasized the need to uphold international commitments. She urged the recognition of the sentiments of the Maldivian people and the continuation of the “India first” policy. The Maldivian government distanced itself from the derogatory remarks and emphasized the importance of responsible expression.