Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is urged by his predecessor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, to adopt a more diplomatic approach and engage in dialogue with neighboring countries to address the financial challenges facing the nation. Solih's comments follow Muizzu's recent appeal to India for debt relief, a move that contrasts with his perceived pro-China stance.
Having lost to Muizzu in the presidential election held last September, Solih expressed his views at a gathering in Male’ aimed at garnering support for Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidates contesting parliamentary seats in Maafannu. Solih noted reports indicating Muizzu's willingness to discuss debt restructuring with India but stressed that the nation's financial woes stem primarily from debts owed to China, not India.
According to Solih, Maldives owes MVR 18 billion to China compared to MVR 8 billion owed to India, with a repayment period of 25 years. Despite this, Solih expressed confidence in the willingness of neighboring countries to assist but emphasized the need for dialogue and compromise, a sentiment he feels Muizzu's administration has been reluctant to embrace until now.
Solih accused the current government of misleading the public and attempting to revive projects initiated during the MDP's tenure while resorting to dishonesty to conceal their actions. He highlighted the deteriorating relationship between Maldives and India since Muizzu's assumption of office, citing Muizzu's demand for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and subsequent replacements with civilians.
In response, Muizzu denied taking actions that would strain bilateral relations and reiterated India's status as Maldives' closest ally, emphasizing the importance of the relationship. However, despite his conciliatory remarks towards India, Muizzu has yet to visit the country, a departure from tradition where Maldivian presidents typically make India their first overseas visit. Notably, Muizzu visited China in January, marking his inaugural state visit since assuming office.
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