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The government of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has rejected suggestions by former President Mohamed Nasheed to invite foreign assistance for patrolling Maldivian maritime straits, stating it will not compromise national sovereignty.
News Desk
President Muizzu, speaking in a press conference - Photo: President Office
MALE : The administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has declared that opening any part of the Maldives, including international trade straits and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), to foreign military or external monitoring would undermine national independence and state sovereignty.
The declaration follows proposals by MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed, who suggested seeking foreign assistance from India and allied nations to secure local sea passages amidst rising tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking at the “Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue” in New Delhi, Nasheed warned that ongoing conflict in the Middle East could spread closer to the Maldives. He argued that threats to Maldivian territorial waters are growing and emphasized the need to rely more closely on neighboring India and other allied nations through meaningful dialogue to safeguard local sea channels.
In response, the government released a statement firming its policy against handing over control of national sea territory to any foreign power. The administration emphasized that protecting national independence, state sovereignty, and maintaining sole authority over international trade straits and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) remains its top priority for regional stability.
The government warned that inviting external forces to monitor Maldivian waters could negatively impact regional peace and advised against encouraging foreign intervention in national security matters.
