Maldives President Muizzu advised to ‘stop being stubborn’ and hold 'dialogue' with India
Mohamed Muizzu to engage in dialogue with neighbouring countries to tackle the nation's financial challenges, PTI reported. Solih's remarks come in response to recent calls from President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, urging India to provide debt relief to the Maldives. Speaking at an event in Male', Solih emphasised the importance of dialogue and cooperation in overcoming the economic hurdles facing the nation.
Solih highlighted the disparity in debt owed by the Maldives to China and India, stating that the nation owes MVR 18 billion to China compared to MVR 8 billion to India, with a repayment period of 25 years. "But the financial challenges are not caused by Indian loans. Maldives has a debt of MVR 18 billion owed to China compared to MVR 8 billion owed to India, Solih said, adding that the repayment period is 25 years.
However, I am confident that our neighbours will help. We must stop being stubborn and seek dialogue. There are many parties that can help us.
But he [Muizzu] doesn't want to compromise. I feel they [the government] are starting to understand the situation only now," Solih was quoted as saying by Adhadhu.com news portal. Expressing confidence in the willingness of neighbouring nations to assist, Solih urged the current government to abandon its stubborn stance and embrace dialogue.
He criticised the government for its alleged deception and emphasised the need for transparency in handling ongoing projects. Relations between the Maldives and India have soured since Muizzu assumed office, with the president demanding the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the archipelago. Despite his conciliatory comments towards India, Muizzu has yet to visit the country, opting for a state visit to
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