"India Out" before, "India Thanks" now

Aug 11, 2024, 5:50 AM
Modi and Muizzu.

Modi and Muizzu.

After a campaign for the removal of Indian military personnel and verbal attacks aimed at the Indian government, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has finally thanked India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

President Muizzu and the leaders of this government led the 'India Out' campaign and paraded in the streets of Male' with puppets mocking Modi.

Following his visit to China, President Muizzu verbally attacked India by stating that the Maldives is not in the backyard of any particular country.

The President also claimed that he would end the dependence on India by stopping the import of medicine from India and travelling to India for medical purposes.

He accused the government of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of following orders from India.

Just nine months after assuming office through a campaign of hate towards India, President Muizzu, on Saturday, finally thanked India for its continuous assistance.

He met Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and said the two countries were working to strengthen relations.

"I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for always supporting the Maldives," Muizzu posted on X after the meeting.

"It was a pleasure to meet Dr. S. Jaishankar today and join him in the official handover of water and sewerage projects in 28 islands of the Maldives," he said.

The 28 projects inaugurated yesterday were implemented during the former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government.

During the meeting with Jaishankar, President Muizzu said the people of Maldives welcome the close relationship with India.

"Our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together, we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region."

Jaishankar's visit comes at a time when the two countries have started working on restoring ties after increased tensions during the early days of the People's National Congress (PNC) government.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Abdulla Shahid arrested over alleged sexual assault

Former Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid was arrested following allegations of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old. Police took Shahid into custody after searching his residence in Hulhumale'. Shahid has denied the claims, calling them a baseless attempt at political character assassination.

MDP submits resolution for referendum over Rasmale' deal

The MDP has submitted a resolution to the Maldivian Parliament seeking a public referendum on the Rasmalé project. The vote would decide whether to grant land to a UAE-based firm for a development allowing foreign residency. The party argues that the long-term implications for national interests require direct public consultation.

Court orders Adhadhu to surrender passwords for seized devices

The Criminal Court has ordered Adhadhu newsroom to provide passwords for four seized MacBooks following a police raid over the "Aisha" documentary. Data extraction must occur before a media commission representative to protect legal privilege. The court emphasized that any evidence gathered must remain confidential and specific to the case.

Rasmale' deal could end Maldivian identity: Jameel

Former VP Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed warns that leasing Rasmalé land to a UAE firm for 99 years threatens the Maldives' identity. He claims international law will force the nation to allow religious freedom and temples for foreign residents, effectively ending the country's status as a sovereign entity defined by a single religion.

Former Chairman of Dhiraagu passes away

Rilwan Shareef, the former Chairman of Dhiraagu and a veteran state official, has passed away while receiving treatment at IGMH. Throughout his distinguished career, he served as a State Minister and held leadership roles at Villa Air and the Maldives Stock Exchange. Details regarding the cause of his death have not been disclosed.

Government workforce increased by 6500 in three years

The government workforce grew by 6,530 employees over the last three years, reaching a total of 55,466. This rapid recruitment has driven the national wage bill to a projected MVR 14.4 billion for next year. The current administration's hiring rate significantly outpaces the previous three-year period.

Rasmale' is an economic concept, says Salaf President

Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohamed Ibrahim, President of Jamiyyathul Salaf, clarified that the Rasmalé project is an economic concept rather than a plan to settle non-Muslims. He dismissed claims of religious concerns as political distortion, emphasizing that the area is intended for high-income residents with legal safeguards in place.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox