Muizzu Asserts Independence in Face of Bullying Allegations

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu highlighted the nation’s resilience against bullying tactics during a press conference at Velana International Airport after his state visit to China, yesterday. 

Addressing concerns about the country’s size, he asserted that the Maldives, despite its smallness, does not give other nations the authority to bully it. Muizzu underscored the significance of the Indian Ocean, noting that despite the size of the islands, the Maldives boasts an expansive exclusive economic zone spanning 900,000 square kilometers, making it a principal stakeholder in the region.

advertisement

Muizzu dispelled notions that the Indian Ocean belonged to any specific country, stating that it belongs to all countries situated in it. This statement came in response to a social media campaign initiated by India, advocating a boycott of Maldives’ tourism sector. Responding to claims that the Maldives is in India’s backyard, Muizzu countered that the nation is an independent and sovereign state.

Highlighting the cornerstone of Maldives-China relations, Muizzu stressed the principle of non-interference in internal affairs. He assured that China would not exert influence over Maldives’ domestic matters. In a veiled criticism of the previous administration’s pro-India policies, Muizzu remarked on seeking permission from a foreign country, stating that the Maldivian people do not desire such influence, and no country should dictate domestic affairs.

Concluding his statement, Muizzu reiterated, “We may be small, but that doesn’t grant anyone the license to bully us.” Muizzu emphasised the nation’s commitment to independence and non-interference as fundamental principles in international relations.