Shahid: Yameen’s foreign policy "amassed a number of issues to the region”

Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s foreign policy amassed a number of issues to the Indian Ocean region, says new Maldivian Foreign Minister.

In an interview to the Times of India last Wednesday, Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid described the previous administration’s foreign policy as “reckless”.

Shahid said the security of the Indian Ocean was paramount to Maldives. And that the security of Maldives had always been closely linked to the security of its immediate neighbors.

The new Foreign Minister announced a drastic change from the previous administration’s policy of treating China as its focal point.

He said the new administration’s foreign policy would be more balanced. And that India in going to be a key partner in the development of Maldives.

"Decisions already taken (by the new government) shows President Solih’s administration will prioritize the Maldives’ traditional relationship with India. PM Modi’s presence at the inauguration and the discussions between the two leaders are a signal of President Solih’s keenness to restore the friendship,” said Shahid, in his interview.

Shahid also said the new administration considered India a key partner in strengthening democracy in Maldives.

"India has traditionally been a key trading partner. We will restore that. India has always been a key partner in many economic and social aspects. Hope to see India’s assistance continue and grow,” said Shahid.

 He said the new administration will restore ties, including benefits to India, but stressed that India must reciprocate by restoring benefits to Maldives.

The new administration has already overridden the decision by previous administration to return naval helicopters donated to Maldives by India, and announced the helicopters will stay in Maldives.

Shahid, during the interview, also promised to prioritize visa issues for Indian nationals, reports the Times of India.