Shahid: Maldives foreign relations must come before party politics

Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has stated that the Maldives' relations with friendly countries abroad are a national interest that should be prioritized over the political interests of any single party. In a post on X on Friday, Shahid said that bringing friendly countries and the Maldives' long-standing development partners into the country's internal political rivalry and party politics is not the most beneficial or correct way for the Maldivian nation. Noting that this is not in the national interest, Shahid said that this is clearly understood from the Maldives' experience, and that relations with external parties are important relationships that must be kept above the affairs of any specific political party. He added that as the opposition, they should always confront the government directly. Shahid said that the opposition opposes the current government's unfruitful policies, unfair dealings conducted behind closed doors, and policies that harm national interests. He also stated that they would raise their voices against government corruption, repeatedly changing policies, and breaking promises made to the people. Shahid said that they will remain committed to holding the government accountable in the interest of the country, without undermining the long-standing friendship with other countries.