Solih Stresses Importance of Preserving Friendship with India Amidst Controversy
Photo: The President’s Office
Former Maldivian President, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, emphasised on the significance of safeguarding the long-standing friendship between the Maldives and India, urging against the impact of derogatory comments.
I condemn the use of hateful language against #India by Maldivian government officials on social media. India has always been a good friend to Maldives and we must not allow such callous remarks to negatively impact the age old friendship between our two countries.advertisement
Solih condemned the use of offensive language against India in a recent post, underscoring the historical bond shared between the two nations. He cautioned against allowing “callous remarks” to harm the age-old friendship that has existed.
The controversy unfolded on social media last week when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video of himself at a beach in Lakshadweep, expressing a commitment to boost tourism in the islands. This led to a reaction from pro-Indian government accounts, claiming potential setbacks for the Maldives’ thriving tourism industry.
The situation escalated as three deputy ministers, identified as top government officials, were suspended for making derogatory comments directed at India and Prime Minister Modi.
Solih’s political party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), released a statement condemning the actions of the suspended officials.
It is noteworthy that Solih’s administration had maintained exceptionally close ties with India throughout its tenure. The former president’s call for diplomatic restraint comes in the midst of efforts to manage and resolve the fallout from the controversial social media row.
