Nasheed warns expanding military ties with Pakistan puts Maldives at risk

Former President and Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed has warned that expanding military cooperation with Pakistan poses a significant danger to the Maldives. Speaking at an MDP press conference, Nasheed said such a move would alarm India and entangle the Maldives in the disputes of rival nations. He stated that the country's safety and security are being compromised under the policies of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Nasheed's remarks come shortly after President Muizzu signed 20 MoUs with Pakistan during his visit to the country, including agreements on military cooperation. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has since pushed to convert these MoUs into formal agreements. President Muizzu, who came to power on an 'India Out' platform, has faced economic headwinds and has recently sought to mend ties with New Delhi. He met Indian Prime Minister Modi in October 2024, and India subsequently rolled over a 30 billion rupee currency swap for the Maldives.