Nasheed Accuses President Muizzu of Recklessly Dragging Maldives into India-Pakistan Rivalry

Former President Mohamed Nasheed, chairperson of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has accused President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of recklessly dragging the Maldives into the longstanding rivalry between India and Pakistan. Speaking at a press conference in Addu City on Thursday, Nasheed said Muizzu's visit to Pakistan last week was conducted "without foresight" and has placed the country in the crossfire between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. "At a time when small nations, especially the Maldives, face great dangers, President Muizzu has gone to Pakistan without due consideration and once again brought the Maldives into the disputes between India and Pakistan," Nasheed said. He warned that if India perceives the Maldives-Pakistan relationship as a threat, the consequences for the Maldives would be severe. "This is a very serious challenge to the safety and security of the Maldives. If India feels its own security is threatened, the repercussions for the Maldives will be very bitter," he added. Nasheed's comments follow India's expression of concern over Muizzu's visit. On Friday, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India is closely monitoring the agreements signed between the Maldives and Pakistan and would take any necessary steps. President Muizzu made an official visit to Pakistan from October 20 to 23, during which 20 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed between the two countries. He met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Ahmed Munir. Pakistan also clarified its position on Kashmir to the Maldivian president. The visit comes amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Since assuming office, Muizzu has received $1.5 billion in loans and credit facilities from India, which also recently paid $42.8 million in interest on $200 million in Treasury bills sold by the Maldives.