Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed Discusses India Relations and Tourism
Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed highlighted the necessity of good relations with India for the nation’s security and prosperity, noting that the anti-India sentiment is not prevalent. He addressed concerns regarding rising debt due to Chinese investments while advocating for sustainable tourism development that protects the Maldivian environment.
In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Mohamed Nasheed, the former President of the Maldives, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relations with India for the nation’s safety, security, and prosperity. He asserted that the Maldives cannot afford to sever ties with India, highlighting that any new leader inevitably recognizes this necessity and alters their stance accordingly. Nasheed clarified that anti-India sentiment is not widespread among the Maldivian populace.
Nasheed also pointed out that his pro-India position was instrumental in his election as president. He remarked, “I got elected, I know our people; it is not a common sentiment in the Maldives.”
The discussion then turned to the foreign relations of the Maldives, particularly concerning the pro-China policy of current President Mohamed Muizzu, which initially strained ties with India. Nasheed expressed concern over China’s increasing influence and the associated debt burden from extensive infrastructure projects undertaken in the Maldives. He stated, “We are now heavily in debt distress and we must be very mindful about our finances.”
When asked if Muizzu’s approach enjoys public support, Nasheed responded that rising debt is universally unappealing, making such justifications difficult to uphold.
Participating in a panel discussion on culture, connectivity, and tourism, Nasheed shared insights on how the Maldives capitalized on tourism since its inception in the 1970s. He noted, “On the back of tourism, we have become a middle-income country.” He elaborated on the successful adaptation of the tourism sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, developing infrastructure to accommodate remote workers. Nasheed stressed the crucial need for sustainable tourism, stating, “You don’t destroy your environment, you make it your product.”
In conclusion, Mohamed Nasheed’s insights underlined the critical dependency of the Maldives on good relations with India for national security and prosperity. He recognized the financial concerns related to China’s involvement while advocating for sustainable tourism practices that respect the environmental integrity of the Maldives. Nasheed’s remarks reflect a broader understanding among Maldivian leaders that future success hinges on balancing international ties and national interests.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
