Sangeeta Das
Amid controversy over derogatory remarks by three ministers of the Island Nation over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep and promoting it as an better alternative to the neighbouring country, Bharat has summoned Maldives envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb to External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi.
WATCH Maldives Envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb exits the MEA here:
https://x.com/ANI/status/1744209873167102226?s=20
Massive outrage erupted within the Maldives with many high-profile leaders condemning the remarks against the “closest neighbour” of the Island Nation by now suspended three ministers – Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Mahzoom Majid.
Maldives’ erstwhile presidents Mohamed Nasheed and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih condemned the use of ‘hateful language’ against Bharat. Dubbing the statement as “appalling”, Mohamed Nasheed urged the government to keep away itself from these remarks while Mohamed Solih said New Delhi has always been the island nation’ good friend.
He requested further not to permit such “callous remarks to negatively impact the age-old friendship between the two nations”.
Foreign Affairs Minister Moosa Zameer said the personal views do not represent the position of the Maldives Government and these remarks are “unacceptable”.
READ The X Post Here:
https://x.com/MoosaZameer/status/1744075763283091524?s=20
The Maldives continues to be committed to fostering a “positive and constructive dialogue” with all its partners, mainly its neighbours, he assured.
Former Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid termed the objectionable remarks as “reprehensible” and “odious” and called on the Maldivian Government to take swift action.
Former Deputy Speaker Eva Abdulla was also among the top politicians to condemn the remarks and labelled it as “shameful and racist”. Apologising and urging Indians to end the boycott campaign against Maldives, the sitting MP said she understands the outrage over the outrageous comments and they are “rightfully angry”.
Eva said statements are “in no way a reflection of the opinion of the Maldivian people”.
In quick counter action, the Maldivian Government too called Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar and details about it are not known.
PM Modi shared beautiful Lakshadweep’s numerous images, including the white beaches, the pristine blue skies and the ocean where he had an “exhilarating experience” doing snorkelling at on January 2.
The Indian Premiere tagged these pictures with a message that read, “For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list.”
