Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed Advocates Strong Ties with India

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed stressed the importance of good relations with India for the Maldives’ safety, security, and prosperity. Despite initial pro-China tendencies from President Muizzu, Nasheed warned of the financial risks associated with China and emphasized sustainable tourism practices. He noted that public sentiment generally favors pro-India leadership, reaffirming his own electoral success.

In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed emphasized the crucial importance of maintaining strong ties with India for the safety, security, and prosperity of the Maldives. He stated that the nation cannot risk having poor relations with India and expressed optimism that new leaders eventually recognize this necessity. Asserting that anti-India sentiment is not widespread among Maldivians, Nasheed noted that his own election was due to his pro-India stance, suggesting that public sentiment aligns with his views.

Nasheed addressed the relationship with China, acknowledging President Muizzu’s initial pro-China approach, which temporarily strained ties with India. He cautioned against the increasing debt incurred from Chinese infrastructure projects and highlighted the need for financial prudence. Nasheed remarked that the public is generally averse to accumulating debt, indicating that Muizzu’s stance may face criticism within the country.

Participating in the Raisina Dialogue, Nasheed was part of a panel discussing the intersection of culture, connectivity, and tourism. He reflected on the Maldives’ tourism industry, which began in the 1970s, as a key driver in elevating the nation to middle-income status. He shared that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals chose the Maldives for remote work, leading to infrastructure developments aimed at accommodating a new type of tourism. Nasheed concluded by stating the importance of environmental consciousness in tourism: “You do not destroy your environment; you make it your product.”

Former President Mohamed Nasheed highlights the significance of strong India-Maldives relations for national security and prosperity. He expresses concerns over the Maldives’ increasing debt tied to Chinese projects while advocating for a sustainable tourism industry. His insights reveal both optimism for future relations with India and caution regarding managing external debts, reinforcing the Maldives’ commitment to environmental stewardship in tourism.

Original Source: www.firstpost.com