In an exclusive interview with India Today, Mohamed Nasheed, former President of the Republic of Maldives, highlighted the critical importance of maintaining strong ties with India for the safety, prosperity, and security of the Maldives.
Nasheed emphasized, "We cannot achieve prosperity without a good relationship with India. While the current government initially had anti-Indian sentiments, they have now recognized that this approach is not sustainable. They’ve shifted course, which is encouraging. Relations have improved, and I hope they will continue to strengthen in the future."
He further stressed the need to respect India's safety and security, adding that the Maldives must carefully manage its relationships with other countries, particularly China. "India has been a long-standing friend to the Maldives. We share common cultural ties, including books, films, and often food. Our dependence on India is significant, so it’s crucial that our foreign policy remains focused on maintaining a strong partnership with India."
Nasheed also addressed concerns about India's military presence in the Maldives, stating, "I have never seen India engage with imperialistic intentions. India has always treated us as an equal partner in every discussion. The Indian military personnel who were in the Maldives were not there for any strategic expansion but to assist in building capacity. They helped with helicopter operations, which were essential for transporting patients from remote islands to healthcare facilities. As an island nation, transportation is a major challenge, and these helicopters were incredibly beneficial to us. This request was made during my administration, and the helicopters stayed in the Maldives until recently."
He concluded by saying, "I don’t view India's support as part of any imperial agenda, and I believe most Maldivians share this perspective."
