Former President of Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, emphasizes the crucial need for strong ties with India, linking national stability and prosperity to these relations. He expresses concerns over debt from Chinese investments and advocates for sustainable tourism as vital to the Maldivian economy.
In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed emphasized that the nation’s safety, security, and prosperity are fundamentally linked to maintaining positive relations with India. He asserted that the Maldives cannot afford to have poor ties with India, regardless of any political changes. Nasheed expressed optimism about future relations, stating that new political leaders in the Maldives typically understand the importance of a good relationship with India and often reverse any negative sentiment. He remarked, “The anti-India sentiment is not a general sentiment in the Maldives.”
Regarding his election as president, Nasheed noted his pro-India stance, explaining that his beliefs align with the sentiments of most Maldivians. He stated, “I got elected, I know our people, it is not a common sentiment in the Maldives.” This perspective stems from concerns over the current government’s brief pro-China stance, which has complicated relations with India due to increased debts from Chinese-funded infrastructure projects. Nasheed warned about the perils of debt, noting, “We are now heavily in debt distress and we must be very mindful about our finances.”
During a panel discussion at the Raisina Dialogue, Nasheed elaborated on the significance of tourism to the Maldivian economy. He revealed, “We started tourism in the 70s, we made a living out of it. On the back of tourism, we have become a middle-income country.” He emphasized that, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maldives adapted by developing infrastructure for remote workers, effectively creating a second home for many. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of environmental consciousness within the tourism industry, concluding, “You don’t destroy your environment, you make it your product.”
The dialogue with former President Mohamed Nasheed underscores the vital importance of the Maldives’ relationship with India for ensuring national safety and prosperity. He acknowledges the dangers of debt from foreign investments, particularly from China, while advocating for sustainable tourism as a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy. Overall, a balanced approach toward international relations and responsible economic policies appear essential for the future of the Maldives.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
