Experts have warned that the Maldives might disappear in the next 100 years, its existence is threatened by rising sea levels.

Maldives might end in 2100, government urges rich nations to meet emissions target

<p>The Distress Alert Transponder (DAT), an indigenous device developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in consultation with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), has saved the lives of nine Indian sailors.</p>

<p>The nine-crewed Mechanised Sailing Vessel (MSV) Annai Vailankanne Arockia Vennila, was stranded at the high seas and faced with on-board flooding amid rough sea conditions when it was sailing between Tuticorin (south Tamil Nadu) and the Maldives, owing to a technical snag.</p>

<p>The Indian Coast Guard’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Chennai received the vessel’s distress message, sent via DAT by 4 pm on Tuesday. At the time of the incident, the vessel was 170 nautical miles from Tuticorin and 230 NM from the Maldives. The MRCC launched the National Search and Rescue Services and activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to coordinate the search and rescue.</p>

<p>Two merchant vessels - MV SKS Mosel and MC MCP Salzburg, in the region, were identified and diverted to the location of the distressed vessel.</p>

<p>The MV MCP Salzburg arrived at the distressed vessel in the early hours of Wednesday (2:30 a.m.) and safely rescued all nine crew members before proceeding to its next port of call (NPC) Maldives, where the rescued crew will disembark.</p>

<p>DATs are carried by Indian fishing boats, Mechanised Sailing Vessels, Coastal Vessels and other small vessels. The distress alert is monitored 24x7x365 by the Coast Guard MRCC at the respective regions.</p>

<p>Jointly developed by the ISRO and ICG, the DAT is a low-cost and effective satellite transmitter built for fishermen. At a press of a button, this device transmits distress alerts to the search and rescue authorities through the INSAT series of satellites. In case of emergency, the user can select a distress message (boat sinking/fire/medical help/other emergencies). The DAT combines the message with the boat’s position (based on GPS) and transmits the same, every few minutes, till it is switched off manually or until the battery lasts.</p>

<p>The Indian Coast Guard has been emphasising that fishermen must carry the DAT device and also register it for effective, timely search and rescue. The DAT unit also helps fishermen receive other information such as potential fishing zones, weather alerts, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system is one of the largest domestic communication satellite systems in the Asia-Pacific region, with multiple operational communication satellites placed in geostationary orbit. Established in 1983 with the commissioning of INSAT-1B, it initiated a major revolution in India’s communications sector and sustained the same later.</p>

<p>According to ISRO, the INSAT system with more than 200 transponders in the C, Extended C and Ku-bands provides services to telecommunications, television broadcasting, satellite news-gathering, societal applications, weather forecasting, disaster warning and Search and Rescue operations.</p>


The Distress Alert Transponder (DAT), an indigenous device developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in consultation with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), has saved the lives of nine Indian sailors.

The Distress Alert Transponder (DAT), an indigenous device developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in consultation with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), has saved the lives of nine Indian sailors. The nine-crewed Mechanised Sailing Vessel (MSV) Annai Vailankanne Arockia Vennila, was stranded at the high seas and faced with on-board flooding amid rough sea conditions when it was sailing between Tuticorin (south Tamil Nadu) and the Maldives, owing to a technical snag. The Indian Coast Guard’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Chennai received the vessel’s distress message, sent via DAT by 4 pm on Tuesday. At the time of the incident, the vessel was 170 nautical miles from Tuticorin and 230 NM from the Maldives. The MRCC launched the National Search and Rescue Services and activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to coordinate the search and rescue. Two merchant vessels - MV SKS Mosel and MC MCP Salzburg, in the region, were identified and diverted to the location of the distressed vessel. The MV MCP Salzburg arrived at the distressed vessel in the early hours of Wednesday (2:30 a.m.) and safely rescued all nine crew members before proceeding to its next port of call (NPC) Maldives, where the rescued crew will disembark. DATs are carried by Indian fishing boats, Mechanised Sailing Vessels, Coastal Vessels and other small vessels. The distress alert is monitored 24x7x365 by the Coast Guard MRCC at the respective regions. Jointly developed by the ISRO and ICG, the DAT is a low-cost and effective satellite transmitter built for fishermen. At a press of a button, this device transmits distress alerts to the search and rescue authorities through the INSAT series of satellites. In case of emergency, the user can select a distress message (boat sinking/fire/medical help/other emergencies). The DAT combines the message with the boat’s position (based on GPS) and transmits the same, every few minutes, till it is switched off manually or until the battery lasts. The Indian Coast Guard has been emphasising that fishermen must carry the DAT device and also register it for effective, timely search and rescue. The DAT unit also helps fishermen receive other information such as potential fishing zones, weather alerts, etc. The Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system is one of the largest domestic communication satellite systems in the Asia-Pacific region, with multiple operational communication satellites placed in geostationary orbit. Established in 1983 with the commissioning of INSAT-1B, it initiated a major revolution in India’s communications sector and sustained the same later. According to ISRO, the INSAT system with more than 200 transponders in the C, Extended C and Ku-bands provides services to telecommunications, television broadcasting, satellite news-gathering, societal applications, weather forecasting, disaster warning and Search and Rescue operations.

ISRO-ICG device helps save nine sailors stranded at sea between India and the Maldives

<p>Neeraj Chopra became the darling of the nation ever since the 23-year-old brought the country its first-ever Olympic medal in athletics by winning gold in the men's javelin throw final in Tokyo 2020. Since then, Neeraj has been in demand and extremely&nbsp;busy with several commercial commitments and various interactions on public platforms.</p>

<p>As a result, the javelin thrower is now on a much-needed break and has travelled to Maldives -- a popular spot for various celebrities worldwide -- for a vacation. However, seems like javelin is still in Neeraj's mind as he shared a video of replicating his javelin throw underwater.</p>

<p>He captioned the post,&nbsp;"Aasman par, zameen pe, ya underwater, I'm always thinking of the javelin!". In addition, he hilariously stated that he has started to train already. He wrote, "PS: Training shuru ho gayi hai" with&nbsp;AR Rehman's version of the patriotic song 'Vande Mataram'&nbsp; being played in the background.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-gives-hilarious-haryanvi-twist-to-amitabh-bachchans-iconic-dialogue-in-kbc-promo-watch-413436">Neeraj Chopra gives hilarious Haryanvi twist to Amitabh Bachchan's iconic dialogue in KBC promo - Watch</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CUfhgrjBMt0/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Neeraj Chopra (@neeraj____chopra)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arshad-nadeem-wasnt-tampering-with-my-javelin-dont-use-my-comments-for-propaganda-neeraj-chopra-defends-pakistans-star-408533"><strong>Arshad Nadeem wasn't tampering with my javelin, don't use my comments for propaganda: Neeraj Chopra defends Pakistan's star</strong></a></p>

<p>Neeraj's popularity has risen immaculately in the recent past. Hence, his post went viral in no time on all social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, Neeraj won India its seventh medal in the Tokyo 2020 with a splendid 87.58m throw in the men's javelin final at the marquee event. He finished at the top and moved past several big names in the event in what was his maiden Olympic appearance.&nbsp;</p>


Neeraj Chopra became the darling of the nation ever since the 23-year-old brought the country its first-ever Olympic medal in athletics by winning gold in the men's javelin throw final in Tokyo 2020.

Neeraj Chopra became the darling of the nation ever since the 23-year-old brought the country its first-ever Olympic medal in athletics by winning gold in the men's javelin throw final in Tokyo 2020. Since then, Neeraj has been in demand and extremely busy with several commercial commitments and various interactions on public platforms. As a result, the javelin thrower is now on a much-needed break and has travelled to Maldives -- a popular spot for various celebrities worldwide -- for a vacation. However, seems like javelin is still in Neeraj's mind as he shared a video of replicating his javelin throw underwater. He captioned the post, "Aasman par, zameen pe, ya underwater, I'm always thinking of the javelin!". In addition, he hilariously stated that he has started to train already. He wrote, "PS: Training shuru ho gayi hai" with AR Rehman's version of the patriotic song 'Vande Mataram' being played in the background. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra gives hilarious Haryanvi twist to Amitabh Bachchan's iconic dialogue in KBC promo - Watch View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neeraj Chopra (@neeraj____chopra) × ALSO READ | Arshad Nadeem wasn't tampering with my javelin, don't use my comments for propaganda: Neeraj Chopra defends Pakistan's star Neeraj's popularity has risen immaculately in the recent past. Hence, his post went viral in no time on all social media platforms. For the unversed, Neeraj won India its seventh medal in the Tokyo 2020 with a splendid 87.58m throw in the men's javelin final at the marquee event. He finished at the top and moved past several big names in the event in what was his maiden Olympic appearance.

Golden boy Neeraj Chopra replicates his javelin throw underwater in Maldives - Watch

President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih speaks at the 76th general debate at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih addresses the 76th UNGA session

<p>After superstars Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar, it is now Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal's turn to take an adventurous trip in the wild with British adventurer Bear Grylls.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Kaushal will explore the wild with Grylls in the Maldives which will be part of the 'Into The Wild With Bear Grylls' episode.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
As per a statement, the two will soon head to an ocean paradise for the shoot.<br />
<br />
A few days ago, the makers of the Discovery`s show roped in actor Ajay Devgn for one of the upcoming episodes of the new season of `Into The Wild With Bear Grylls`. Ajay is already in the Maldives.<br />
<br />
The previous seasons of `Into The Wild With Bear Grylls` had featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi and superstars Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


After superstars Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar, it is now Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal's turn to take an adventurous trip in the wild with British adventurer Bear Grylls.

After superstars Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar, it is now Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal's turn to take an adventurous trip in the wild with British adventurer Bear Grylls. Kaushal will explore the wild with Grylls in the Maldives which will be part of the 'Into The Wild With Bear Grylls' episode. As per a statement, the two will soon head to an ocean paradise for the shoot. A few days ago, the makers of the Discovery`s show roped in actor Ajay Devgn for one of the upcoming episodes of the new season of `Into The Wild With Bear Grylls`. Ajay is already in the Maldives. The previous seasons of `Into The Wild With Bear Grylls` had featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi and superstars Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar.

Vicky Kaushal to feature in 'Into The Wild With Bear Grylls'

<p>India and Maldives will sign a contract on the mega Greater Male Connectivity project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project of the country.</p>

<p>The project is a 6.74 km long bridge and causeway link that will connect national capital Male with islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. It is funded under a grant of $100 million and line of credit of $ 400 million from India.</p>

<p>The signing ceremony will take place at 11 am and will witness the participation of four&nbsp;ministers - Ministers of National Planning &amp; Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail, Finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Transport Minister Aishath Nahula, Maldives foreign secretary, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and senior Management from AFCONS. The contract will be signed between India's AFCONS and the Maldives government.</p>

<p>The project was first discussed during EAM Jaishankar’s September 2019 visit to the country. During the visit, President Solih and foreign minister Abdulla Shahid had requested for such a project, one that will not only be a connectivity link but become the economic lifeline of the country.&nbsp; The project essentially connects four main islands of the country, where almost half of the Maldivian population lives. The project will use solar power for lighting purposes.</p>

<p>Once completed, it will dwarf the 1.4 km long Sinamalé Bridge which connects Male with Hulhule’ and Hulhumalé. The bridge was built with Chinese support was completed in 2018.</p>

<p>India has been involved in other infra projects of the country. This includes expansion of the airport at Hanimadhoo and gan, roads and reclamation in Addu, expansion of fisheries plants, cricket stadium in Hulhumalé, water and sanitation project in 34 islands and road project in the southern city of Addu.</p>

<p>India's&nbsp;line of credit is being used in ten projects which includes a cancer hospital whose survey work is in progress. Earlier this year, an additional amount of $4.5 mn for High Impact community development projects was approved by the Indian government.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India and Maldives will sign a contract on the mega Greater Male Connectivity project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project of the country. The project is a 6.

India and Maldives will sign a contract on the mega Greater Male Connectivity project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project of the country. The project is a 6.74 km long bridge and causeway link that will connect national capital Male with islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. It is funded under a grant of $100 million and line of credit of $ 400 million from India. The signing ceremony will take place at 11 am and will witness the participation of four ministers - Ministers of National Planning & Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail, Finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Transport Minister Aishath Nahula, Maldives foreign secretary, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and senior Management from AFCONS. The contract will be signed between India's AFCONS and the Maldives government. The project was first discussed during EAM Jaishankar’s September 2019 visit to the country. During the visit, President Solih and foreign minister Abdulla Shahid had requested for such a project, one that will not only be a connectivity link but become the economic lifeline of the country. The project essentially connects four main islands of the country, where almost half of the Maldivian population lives. The project will use solar power for lighting purposes. Once completed, it will dwarf the 1.4 km long Sinamalé Bridge which connects Male with Hulhule’ and Hulhumalé. The bridge was built with Chinese support was completed in 2018. India has been involved in other infra projects of the country. This includes expansion of the airport at Hanimadhoo and gan, roads and reclamation in Addu, expansion of fisheries plants, cricket stadium in Hulhumalé, water and sanitation project in 34 islands and road project in the southern city of Addu. India's line of credit is being used in ten projects which includes a cancer hospital whose survey work is in progress. Earlier this year, an additional amount of $4.5 mn for High Impact community development projects was approved by the Indian government.

India, Maldives to sign pact on mega Greater Malé Connectivity Project

<p>Air India has announced new additional flights connecting Indian cities with Maldives and Malaysia. This comes as the countries eased travel restrictions with India.</p>

<p>As part of the Vande Bharat mission, Air India will operate flights from Delhi to Malé via Mumbai every Wednesday and Saturday, beginning from July 28.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There will also be a flight from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala to Malé every Monday and Thursday, beginning from July 29.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-cruises-from-england-to-restart-from-august-2-401358"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;International cruises from England to restart from August 2</strong></a></p>

<p>Air India Express has also announced flights between India and Kuala Lumpur from August.</p>

<p>The airline aims at connecting Trichy, Bengaluru, Kochi, Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Chennai with Kuala Lumpur.&nbsp;<br />
Bookings for these flights are open on Air India’s website and call centres.</p>

<p>Recently, Air India had also announced several international flights to Middle Eastern countries, including, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p>


Air India has announced new additional flights connecting Indian cities with Maldives and Malaysia. This comes as the countries eased travel restrictions with India.

Air India has announced new additional flights connecting Indian cities with Maldives and Malaysia. This comes as the countries eased travel restrictions with India. As part of the Vande Bharat mission, Air India will operate flights from Delhi to Malé via Mumbai every Wednesday and Saturday, beginning from July 28. There will also be a flight from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala to Malé every Monday and Thursday, beginning from July 29. Also read | International cruises from England to restart from August 2 Air India Express has also announced flights between India and Kuala Lumpur from August. The airline aims at connecting Trichy, Bengaluru, Kochi, Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Chennai with Kuala Lumpur. Bookings for these flights are open on Air India’s website and call centres. Recently, Air India had also announced several international flights to Middle Eastern countries, including, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Air India announces new flights to Maldives, Malaysia

<p>President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih&nbsp;has welcomed the presidency of his country at the United Nations General Assembly and during the Independence day speech said that it elevates "our leverage on the international stage."&nbsp;&nbsp;Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid has been elected as the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)&nbsp; for its 76th session.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He explained, "Our policies to preserve the independence of the Maldives and sustaining diplomatic relations while honoring the independence of other nations played an instrumental role in the recent election" to UNGA. Shahid&nbsp;got a whopping 143 votes in the 193 strong body. The tenure of the post is one year and is a prestigious one due to authority over the working of the General Assembly.</p>

<p>India was the first country to extend support to Maldives' candidature. The announcement&nbsp;was first made during Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla's Maldives visit in November. Again during the visit of EAM Jaishankar's visit to the Maldives in February of 2021, India reiterated its continued backing for his candidature.</p>

<p>During his independence day address, President Solih said, "Maintaining harmonious ties with foreign countries is crucial to preserving our independence.".&nbsp;Ibrahim Nasir Rannabandeyri Kilegefaan played a key role in the independence of the country which was a protectorate of the British Empire.&nbsp;During the speech, President Solih also paid tributes to "heroes who liberated our nation from the Portuguese rule" which are Sultan Al-Ghaazee Mohamed Thakurufaanul Auzam and his companions.</p>

<p>On Covid crisis, the president said, "Our current situation calls upon us to unite our nation and offer our full support" and that the "Government requires the help and cooperation of all citizens in our efforts to protect Maldivians from the Covid-19 pandemic". Next week the Solih administration begins a program to vaccinate everyone residing in the Maldives. He said, "The Government’s foremost aim is to complete the vaccination of 90 percent of the eligible population by August, and from there, complete vaccination of all Maldivians.".</p>

<p>The Maldives, along with Bhutan were the first two&nbsp;countries India sent vaccines to. Both countries got the vaccines within 48 hours of India beginning its mega vaccination programme.</p>

<p>He highlighted, "In light of our efforts against the Covid-19 pandemic in the past year and a half, we must now focus on getting on with our daily routines with precautionary measures in place. We must at the same time work wisely to boost our national economy."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maldives tourism-led economy was impacted by the pandemic as globally international travel came to a grinding halt. An uptick is expected as more tourists, especially from India head towards the country known for its famous&nbsp;picturesque sunsets and shores.&nbsp;</p>


President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has welcomed the presidency of his country at the United Nations General Assembly and during the Independence day speech said that it elevates "our leverage on the international stage.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has welcomed the presidency of his country at the United Nations General Assembly and during the Independence day speech said that it elevates "our leverage on the international stage." Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid has been elected as the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for its 76th session. He explained, "Our policies to preserve the independence of the Maldives and sustaining diplomatic relations while honoring the independence of other nations played an instrumental role in the recent election" to UNGA. Shahid got a whopping 143 votes in the 193 strong body. The tenure of the post is one year and is a prestigious one due to authority over the working of the General Assembly. India was the first country to extend support to Maldives' candidature. The announcement was first made during Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla's Maldives visit in November. Again during the visit of EAM Jaishankar's visit to the Maldives in February of 2021, India reiterated its continued backing for his candidature. During his independence day address, President Solih said, "Maintaining harmonious ties with foreign countries is crucial to preserving our independence.". Ibrahim Nasir Rannabandeyri Kilegefaan played a key role in the independence of the country which was a protectorate of the British Empire. During the speech, President Solih also paid tributes to "heroes who liberated our nation from the Portuguese rule" which are Sultan Al-Ghaazee Mohamed Thakurufaanul Auzam and his companions. On Covid crisis, the president said, "Our current situation calls upon us to unite our nation and offer our full support" and that the "Government requires the help and cooperation of all citizens in our efforts to protect Maldivians from the Covid-19 pandemic". Next week the Solih administration begins a program to vaccinate everyone residing in the Maldives. He said, "The Government’s foremost aim is to complete the vaccination of 90 percent of the eligible population by August, and from there, complete vaccination of all Maldivians.". The Maldives, along with Bhutan were the first two countries India sent vaccines to. Both countries got the vaccines within 48 hours of India beginning its mega vaccination programme. He highlighted, "In light of our efforts against the Covid-19 pandemic in the past year and a half, we must now focus on getting on with our daily routines with precautionary measures in place. We must at the same time work wisely to boost our national economy." Maldives tourism-led economy was impacted by the pandemic as globally international travel came to a grinding halt. An uptick is expected as more tourists, especially from India head towards the country known for its famous picturesque sunsets and shores.

UNGA presidency elevates our leverage on international stage: Maldives President Solih

<p>Maldives top businessman Mohamed Ali Janah who is on an India visit has said that his country is seeing an economic recovery even as the impact of the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic subsides. The Maldives&nbsp;which largely depends&nbsp;on tourism was impacted due to the crisis.</p>

<p>Expressing confidence, Janah while speaking to WION said, "We have been too able to manage things. On the economic front, we were hit very badly. Restaurants and&nbsp;boating were hit very badly. In the early stages, they had to close for a prolonged period of time."</p>

<p>He explained, "Gradual recovery is happening now. Would not say people were not hit. Industries have been hit very badly but the good news is we are on a recovery path. Next year and 2023 will be very good for the Maldives. In the worst of times, we have managed in a way beyond people's expectations."</p>

<p>As&nbsp;the chairman of Hotels and Resort Construction Pvt Ltd, his current project portfolio is worth over $300 million. Janah is hopeful of getting more investments during his India visit and is expected to start new projects.</p>

<p>Being closely associated with the tourism industry, he pointed out that tourists are getting back which is a sign of normalcy returning. He said, "India was the saviour. Indian tourists started coming, the Russian tourist started coming. I would say India, Russia saved the Maldives this time. As you can see the numbers, by July this year 132,000 Russian had visited and 100,000 Indians had visited."</p>

<p>The Maldives opened for Indian tourists&nbsp;on July 15&nbsp;as the country announced that it will issue on-arrival tourist visas to South Asian travellers.</p>

<p>In May, entry of tourists was suspended as COVID-19&nbsp;cases surged in the region and India was hit by the devastating second&nbsp;wave of the virus. A large number of people associated with Maldives'&nbsp;hotel industry have also been vaccinated.</p>

<p>On India-Maldives ties, he said, "The current political relations between India and Maldives are at its best. It&nbsp;creates a lot of new opportunities for the businessman of both countries to avail the business transactions that could take place between the two&nbsp;countries."</p>

<p>Janah who is also the chief of the National Federation of Maldivian Employers&nbsp;suggested that India can help in capacity building in his country, especially in the tourism and hotel sector. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Lauding Indian workers in his country, he highlighted, "One thing good for us is that we also have an illegal labour problem.. but when it comes to Indian workers they are very careful, they are very disciplined and they never abscond which helps us to trust Indian ex-pat community"</p>

<p>Maldives industry has a rule that one should have 45 per cent&nbsp;Maldivians and 55 per cent&nbsp;ex-pats in any resort.</p>


Maldives top businessman Mohamed Ali Janah who is on an India visit has said that his country is seeing an economic recovery even as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic subsides.

Maldives top businessman Mohamed Ali Janah who is on an India visit has said that his country is seeing an economic recovery even as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. The Maldives which largely depends on tourism was impacted due to the crisis. Expressing confidence, Janah while speaking to WION said, "We have been too able to manage things. On the economic front, we were hit very badly. Restaurants and boating were hit very badly. In the early stages, they had to close for a prolonged period of time." He explained, "Gradual recovery is happening now. Would not say people were not hit. Industries have been hit very badly but the good news is we are on a recovery path. Next year and 2023 will be very good for the Maldives. In the worst of times, we have managed in a way beyond people's expectations." As the chairman of Hotels and Resort Construction Pvt Ltd, his current project portfolio is worth over $300 million. Janah is hopeful of getting more investments during his India visit and is expected to start new projects. Being closely associated with the tourism industry, he pointed out that tourists are getting back which is a sign of normalcy returning. He said, "India was the saviour. Indian tourists started coming, the Russian tourist started coming. I would say India, Russia saved the Maldives this time. As you can see the numbers, by July this year 132,000 Russian had visited and 100,000 Indians had visited." The Maldives opened for Indian tourists on July 15 as the country announced that it will issue on-arrival tourist visas to South Asian travellers. In May, entry of tourists was suspended as COVID-19 cases surged in the region and India was hit by the devastating second wave of the virus. A large number of people associated with Maldives' hotel industry have also been vaccinated. On India-Maldives ties, he said, "The current political relations between India and Maldives are at its best. It creates a lot of new opportunities for the businessman of both countries to avail the business transactions that could take place between the two countries." Janah who is also the chief of the National Federation of Maldivian Employers suggested that India can help in capacity building in his country, especially in the tourism and hotel sector. Lauding Indian workers in his country, he highlighted, "One thing good for us is that we also have an illegal labour problem.. but when it comes to Indian workers they are very careful, they are very disciplined and they never abscond which helps us to trust Indian ex-pat community" Maldives industry has a rule that one should have 45 per cent Maldivians and 55 per cent ex-pats in any resort.

Top Maldives businessman upbeat on economic recovery as COVID-19 crisis subsides

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and President-Elect of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdullah Shahid, on Friday commended India's generosity for ensuring COVID-19 vaccine supply to 95 countries and providing essential medicines to 150 countries around the world.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">Shahid was speaking at the 4th Sapru House Lecture on the challenges faced by Maldives democracy.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">Abdullah also informed us that the "world economy shrank by 4.3 per cent in 2020, while many countries fell into debt. Global poverty has also increased, pushing almost 114 million people to lose their jobs."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">Meanwhile, Indian multilateralist Manjeev Puri said, "We are pleased to see a South-Asian chairing the UN General Assembly."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">The Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA) Director-General TCA Raghavan also expressed that "It is an honour for the Indian Council of World Affairs to have Abdullah Shahid deliver the Sapru House Lecture today."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Shahid Abdullah was addressing the 38th Sapru House Lecture on the COVID pandemic and the need for reformed multilateralism. The Sapru House Lecture is the flagship public lecture series dedicated to the founders of ICWA.</p>


The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and President-Elect of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdullah Shahid, on Friday commended India's generosity for ensuring COVID-19 vaccine supply to 95 countries and providing essential medicines to 150 countries around the world.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and President-Elect of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdullah Shahid, on Friday commended India's generosity for ensuring COVID-19 vaccine supply to 95 countries and providing essential medicines to 150 countries around the world. Shahid was speaking at the 4th Sapru House Lecture on the challenges faced by Maldives democracy. Abdullah also informed us that the "world economy shrank by 4.3 per cent in 2020, while many countries fell into debt. Global poverty has also increased, pushing almost 114 million people to lose their jobs." Meanwhile, Indian multilateralist Manjeev Puri said, "We are pleased to see a South-Asian chairing the UN General Assembly." The Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA) Director-General TCA Raghavan also expressed that "It is an honour for the Indian Council of World Affairs to have Abdullah Shahid deliver the Sapru House Lecture today." Shahid Abdullah was addressing the 38th Sapru House Lecture on the COVID pandemic and the need for reformed multilateralism. The Sapru House Lecture is the flagship public lecture series dedicated to the founders of ICWA.

Abdullah Shahid praises India for supplying COVID-19 vaccines, essential medicines to world

In the Maldives, vested interests seem to be whipping up anti-India sentiments. An online publication is pushing an 'India Out' campaign. The relentless attacks have created a serious security risk for Indian diplomats.

Gravitas: Who is fuelling an anti-India campaign in the Maldives?

<p>In his first television interview since the assassination attempt on him,&nbsp;Mohamed Nasheed, the current speaker of the&nbsp;Maldives Parliament (People's Majlis) has expressed worries over the extremist elements in his country. Speaking from London to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Nasheed said, "our politicians, the liberal-minded politicians must come together, must sit down, and must work together so that we have a platform that is more liberal in its outlook."</p>

<p>He had suffered multiple injuries during the assassination attempt, which was a terror attack. The person who detonated the bomb was arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasheed has served as the country's President and is currently the&nbsp;President&nbsp;of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). When asked about the ideological difference between him and President Solih, he said, "our party will remain united, I cannot see any harm or any serious split between me and the President."</p>

<p>He reiterated the 'India first policy' and&nbsp;called for all political parties, including the opposition Progressive Party of Maldives, to&nbsp;"work together with our long time neighbor India and that we should have a special relation with India". He also expressed worries over Chinese debt, explaining, "We call upon China to restructure the debt and it still hasn't happened", adding, "it will be very difficult to pay back the money" to Beijing.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-former-prez-mohamed-nasheed-first-interview-since-assassination-bid-399299"><strong>WATCH |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-former-prez-mohamed-nasheed-first-interview-since-assassination-bid-399299/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><b>WION: How is your recovery, since the assassination attempt on you?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>It is my first television interview and I thank everyone who has been so kind to me after the assassination attempt — the Indian authorities, foreign secretary, speaker of the parliament, the high commissioner to the Maldives. The government of Maldives is investigating the matter but unfortunately, they have not been able to get to the bottom of the issue and have not been able to identify the schemers and the funders. The man who detonated the bomb was captured on camera,&nbsp;so he and four other associates are in prison now.</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;Who do you think is responsible for the assassination attempt?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>The person who is under arrest and the four associates of him are linked to extremist Islamic ideology, especially that of the Islamic State (ISIS). They have conducted such attacks in the Maldives, but not through a remote device detonation as it was attempted on me. However, previously, there have been three murders that have had the same pattern.&nbsp;It is very serious and unfortunate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;How would you address the issue of radicalisation and terrorism? Is there any set plan to&nbsp;deal with this issue, considering the number of travellers from the Maldives to Syria and other places?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>That is true. A fair amount of Maldivians did travel to fight the war in Syria and other places. At the same time, we must understand, the vast majority of people of Maldives are progressive and liberal-minded. The elections — three presidential elections, four parliamentary elections and three local council elections — conducted after the 2008 constitution&nbsp; suggest that extremist views have no place in the Maldives. None of the extremist conservative parties has ever won seats in the Parliament or in the local council elections.</p>

<p>However, because of the progressive elements of the majority, with our party on the one side and those against us on the other side, because that is divided, whenever we come to power, we have been always able to do with the extremists supporting us, with the conservative elements supporting us. That has been the case when President Yameen came to the government. That was the case when I came to the government in 2008, and unfortunately, that is the case even now. So I think, our politicians, the liberal-minded politicians, must come together, must sit down, and must work together so that we have a platform that is more liberal in its outlook. So, politics has to realign.</p>

<p><b>WION: Is there any practical plan, such as deradicalisation centers, in action that can help deal with this issue?&nbsp;</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>Well, we have spoken about these things for a very long time but my understanding is that for such constructive work to happen, politics has to align first. We cannot go ahead with such a programme&nbsp;while there are extremist elements within the home ministry, police or the army, customs, education ministry. First, we need to reform these institutions and make sure that there is no deep state working within the state of the Maldives.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;How do you see India's role in helping deal with the issue of radicalisation, in terms of capacity building, and more?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>There is a lot that New Delhi can do and then they are doing a lot such as capacity building within the police, the military and education system. Even as I speak, work is going on. This is also the time for establishment in New Delhi to see a wider picture and to understand how politics can be realigned and&nbsp;how progressive forces can come to a single platform, single idea and win government accordingly. Not for winning government through alliances that have a rouge ideology.</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;Given your vocal stand against China, what steps are you taking to make sure China does not increase its influence?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>One of the things we did was to reassess the nation's debt. The parliament has worked very hard in assessing how much we are in debt to different Chinese companies, banks, and also the Chinese state.</p>

<p>We call upon China to restructure the debt but it still hasn't happened. Due to the already existing financial difficulties and considering that the projects we spent money on were not financially viable, it will be&nbsp;very difficult to pay back the money. I think, all our political parties, including the opposition&nbsp;Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), must again come down to the same platform where we understand diplomatic relations and where we understand that we must work together with our long time neighbour, India, and that we should have a special relation with India and we should have India-first foreign policy.</p>

<p>I believe it is possible for us to have an all-party understanding of these issues. I think I will be working very hard to see that the opposition also understands that we need to have an all-party dialogue and an all-party understanding of foreign policy, especially on our relations with India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;It looks like a&nbsp;political separation and ideological difference has happened between you and President Solih. Do you think the divide can impact party unity and can those be misused by China?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:</b>&nbsp;You can never impose unity on anyone, and wishful thinking cannot lead us to stability either. Our party will remain united, I cannot see any harm or any serious split between me and the President. Of course, we have an ideological difference, I believe that the President must revert back to the core issues we believe in, which is a moderate version of Islam and not to pander to extremist views. Yes, that can for a short while bring us political support and I don't think in the long and medium-term that is going to lead us to any stability.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;You recently lost&nbsp;the Malé council election, do you reckon any specific reason behind this?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:</b>&nbsp;When you depart from our core values, and when you appease minority views, then the wider public understands that. Why we lost local council elections is because the MDP voters, our own voters, did not turn up. They felt that their core beliefs and ideas were ignored and that the government was pandering to minority views. They were not very happy about that.&nbsp;They wanted to give a clear message to the leadership, especially in Male. I believe that government must correct its course quickly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;Will you be keen to stand for the next presidential elections in the Maldives?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>I have always been saying, I haven't retired and I am available. I will make myself available for all elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;Is there any chance of you&nbsp;joining hands with PPM? Or does that remains an anathema or no-go area?&nbsp;</b></p>

<p><strong>Mohamed Nasheed:</strong>&nbsp;There is confusion here. I am seriously calling upon the opposition, to please look at what is happening in the country. You have won elections once, and they did it with extremist elements within the government. We have won twice and we did exactly the same thing. Pandering to these ideas means letting extremism creep into our country. That is not in our interest and I don't believe that the good people of the PPM, neither solid supporters of the MDP, would like that.</p>

<p>So, I am willing to work with the PPM, that doesn't necessarily mean I am willing to work with anyone in the PPM. I am suggesting that I am willing to work with people who are willing to come to a singular understanding of where we want our country to go. We do not want our country to become another Afghanistan or fail. We want the prosperous Maldives. Our people want to have a good life and we want to give them a good life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;Any plans of visiting India in the near future?</b></p>

<p><b>Mohamed Nasheed:&nbsp;</b>I know it has been a long time. The pandemic hasn't been an easy period; travel has been extremely difficult. As soon as I am better and able to recover, which I am recovering now, I will soon be in Delhi and I would love to do that.&nbsp;</p>


In his first television interview since the assassination attempt on him, Mohamed Nasheed, the current speaker of the Maldives Parliament (People's Majlis) has expressed worries over the extremist elements in his country.

In his first television interview since the assassination attempt on him, Mohamed Nasheed, the current speaker of the Maldives Parliament (People's Majlis) has expressed worries over the extremist elements in his country. Speaking from London to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Nasheed said, "our politicians, the liberal-minded politicians must come together, must sit down, and must work together so that we have a platform that is more liberal in its outlook." He had suffered multiple injuries during the assassination attempt, which was a terror attack. The person who detonated the bomb was arrested. Nasheed has served as the country's President and is currently the President of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). When asked about the ideological difference between him and President Solih, he said, "our party will remain united, I cannot see any harm or any serious split between me and the President." He reiterated the 'India first policy' and called for all political parties, including the opposition Progressive Party of Maldives, to "work together with our long time neighbor India and that we should have a special relation with India". He also expressed worries over Chinese debt, explaining, "We call upon China to restructure the debt and it still hasn't happened", adding, "it will be very difficult to pay back the money" to Beijing. WATCH | WION: How is your recovery, since the assassination attempt on you? Mohamed Nasheed: It is my first television interview and I thank everyone who has been so kind to me after the assassination attempt — the Indian authorities, foreign secretary, speaker of the parliament, the high commissioner to the Maldives. The government of Maldives is investigating the matter but unfortunately, they have not been able to get to the bottom of the issue and have not been able to identify the schemers and the funders. The man who detonated the bomb was captured on camera, so he and four other associates are in prison now. WION: Who do you think is responsible for the assassination attempt? Mohamed Nasheed: The person who is under arrest and the four associates of him are linked to extremist Islamic ideology, especially that of the Islamic State (ISIS). They have conducted such attacks in the Maldives, but not through a remote device detonation as it was attempted on me. However, previously, there have been three murders that have had the same pattern. It is very serious and unfortunate. WION: How would you address the issue of radicalisation and terrorism? Is there any set plan to deal with this issue, considering the number of travellers from the Maldives to Syria and other places? Mohamed Nasheed: That is true. A fair amount of Maldivians did travel to fight the war in Syria and other places. At the same time, we must understand, the vast majority of people of Maldives are progressive and liberal-minded. The elections — three presidential elections, four parliamentary elections and three local council elections — conducted after the 2008 constitution suggest that extremist views have no place in the Maldives. None of the extremist conservative parties has ever won seats in the Parliament or in the local council elections. However, because of the progressive elements of the majority, with our party on the one side and those against us on the other side, because that is divided, whenever we come to power, we have been always able to do with the extremists supporting us, with the conservative elements supporting us. That has been the case when President Yameen came to the government. That was the case when I came to the government in 2008, and unfortunately, that is the case even now. So I think, our politicians, the liberal-minded politicians, must come together, must sit down, and must work together so that we have a platform that is more liberal in its outlook. So, politics has to realign. WION: Is there any practical plan, such as deradicalisation centers, in action that can help deal with this issue? Mohamed Nasheed: Well, we have spoken about these things for a very long time but my understanding is that for such constructive work to happen, politics has to align first. We cannot go ahead with such a programme while there are extremist elements within the home ministry, police or the army, customs, education ministry. First, we need to reform these institutions and make sure that there is no deep state working within the state of the Maldives. WION: How do you see India's role in helping deal with the issue of radicalisation, in terms of capacity building, and more? Mohamed Nasheed: There is a lot that New Delhi can do and then they are doing a lot such as capacity building within the police, the military and education system. Even as I speak, work is going on. This is also the time for establishment in New Delhi to see a wider picture and to understand how politics can be realigned and how progressive forces can come to a single platform, single idea and win government accordingly. Not for winning government through alliances that have a rouge ideology. WION: Given your vocal stand against China, what steps are you taking to make sure China does not increase its influence? Mohamed Nasheed: One of the things we did was to reassess the nation's debt. The parliament has worked very hard in assessing how much we are in debt to different Chinese companies, banks, and also the Chinese state. We call upon China to restructure the debt but it still hasn't happened. Due to the already existing financial difficulties and considering that the projects we spent money on were not financially viable, it will be very difficult to pay back the money. I think, all our political parties, including the opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), must again come down to the same platform where we understand diplomatic relations and where we understand that we must work together with our long time neighbour, India, and that we should have a special relation with India and we should have India-first foreign policy. I believe it is possible for us to have an all-party understanding of these issues. I think I will be working very hard to see that the opposition also understands that we need to have an all-party dialogue and an all-party understanding of foreign policy, especially on our relations with India. WION: It looks like a political separation and ideological difference has happened between you and President Solih. Do you think the divide can impact party unity and can those be misused by China? Mohamed Nasheed: You can never impose unity on anyone, and wishful thinking cannot lead us to stability either. Our party will remain united, I cannot see any harm or any serious split between me and the President. Of course, we have an ideological difference, I believe that the President must revert back to the core issues we believe in, which is a moderate version of Islam and not to pander to extremist views. Yes, that can for a short while bring us political support and I don't think in the long and medium-term that is going to lead us to any stability. WION: You recently lost the Malé council election, do you reckon any specific reason behind this? Mohamed Nasheed: When you depart from our core values, and when you appease minority views, then the wider public understands that. Why we lost local council elections is because the MDP voters, our own voters, did not turn up. They felt that their core beliefs and ideas were ignored and that the government was pandering to minority views. They were not very happy about that. They wanted to give a clear message to the leadership, especially in Male. I believe that government must correct its course quickly. WION: Will you be keen to stand for the next presidential elections in the Maldives? Mohamed Nasheed: I have always been saying, I haven't retired and I am available. I will make myself available for all elections. WION: Is there any chance of you joining hands with PPM? Or does that remains an anathema or no-go area? Mohamed Nasheed: There is confusion here. I am seriously calling upon the opposition, to please look at what is happening in the country. You have won elections once, and they did it with extremist elements within the government. We have won twice and we did exactly the same thing. Pandering to these ideas means letting extremism creep into our country. That is not in our interest and I don't believe that the good people of the PPM, neither solid supporters of the MDP, would like that. So, I am willing to work with the PPM, that doesn't necessarily mean I am willing to work with anyone in the PPM. I am suggesting that I am willing to work with people who are willing to come to a singular understanding of where we want our country to go. We do not want our country to become another Afghanistan or fail. We want the prosperous Maldives. Our people want to have a good life and we want to give them a good life. WION: Any plans of visiting India in the near future? Mohamed Nasheed: I know it has been a long time. The pandemic hasn't been an easy period; travel has been extremely difficult. As soon as I am better and able to recover, which I am recovering now, I will soon be in Delhi and I would love to do that.

Maldives' Nasheed expresses worries over extremist elements; says China hasn't restructured debt

The Maldives parliament speaker and former president Mohamed Nasheed spoke to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal in his first interview after surviving an assassination attempt in May. Watch this exclusive interview.

Maldives former Prez Mohamed Nasheed first interview since assassination bid

<p>Bollywood actor Kiara Advani on Thursday treated her fans to a throwback video from her <a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-in-pic-kiara-advani-turns-up-the-heat-in-throwback-bikini-photo-388505">Maldivian holiday</a>, saying that she misses the sunshine and the tan.<br />
<br />
The 'Gold'&nbsp;actor took to her Instagram handle and posted a video collage featuring her in a pink bikini, holidaying in the picturesque tourist locale. Sharing the video with her fans, Kiara wrote, "Missing the sunshine and tan." She also used the song `Can We Kiss Forever?` by Kina.</p>

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<p>Soon after she shared the video, her fans and friends from the industry dropped heart and fire emojis in the comments section. While Jacqueline Fernandez wrote, "Pretttyyyy".Navya Naveli Nanda, Alia Bhatt and Manish Malhotra dropped fire and awestruck emojis.</p>

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<p>Meanwhile, on the work front, Kiara will be next seen in the comic supernatural thriller drama 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2' with Kartik Aaryan. The film will be helmed by Anees Bazmee, unlike the first one which was directed by Priyadarshan.`Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2` is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Murad Khetani, and Krishan Kumar under the banner of T-Series and Cine 1 studios.</p>


Bollywood actor Kiara Advani on Thursday treated her fans to a throwback video from her Maldivian holiday, saying that she misses the sunshine and the tan. The 'Gold' actor took to her Instagram handle and posted a video collage featuring her in a pink bikini, holidaying in the picturesque tourist locale.

Bollywood actor Kiara Advani on Thursday treated her fans to a throwback video from her Maldivian holiday, saying that she misses the sunshine and the tan. The 'Gold' actor took to her Instagram handle and posted a video collage featuring her in a pink bikini, holidaying in the picturesque tourist locale. Sharing the video with her fans, Kiara wrote, "Missing the sunshine and tan." She also used the song `Can We Kiss Forever?` by Kina. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KIARA (@kiaraaliaadvani) × Soon after she shared the video, her fans and friends from the industry dropped heart and fire emojis in the comments section. While Jacqueline Fernandez wrote, "Pretttyyyy".Navya Naveli Nanda, Alia Bhatt and Manish Malhotra dropped fire and awestruck emojis. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KIARA (@kiaraaliaadvani) × Meanwhile, on the work front, Kiara will be next seen in the comic supernatural thriller drama 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2' with Kartik Aaryan. The film will be helmed by Anees Bazmee, unlike the first one which was directed by Priyadarshan.`Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2` is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Murad Khetani, and Krishan Kumar under the banner of T-Series and Cine 1 studios.

Kiara Advani shares throwback video from Maldives vacation

<p>Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has appointed a veteran British human rights expert as the special envoy to monitor the investigation, prosecution and trial of those involved in the terrorist attack against Parliament Speaker and former president Mohamed Nasheed.</p>

<p>Nasheed, 54, was injured in a blast near his home in Male on May 6.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-president-of-maldives-mohamed-nasheed-injured-in-a-suspected-bomb-attack-383319">Former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed injured in a suspected bomb attack</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), the blast occurred when an IED strapped to a motorcycle detonated.</p>

<p>Multiple surgeries were performed on Nasheed at a hospital in Male, and he has since been airlifted to Germany for further treatment, local media reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-former-president-flown-to-germany-after-bomb-attack-384716">Maldives' former president flown to Germany after bomb attack</a></strong></p>

<p>Abbas Faiz has been appointed as the special envoy to the government of Maldives to monitor the investigation, prosecution and trial of alleged perpetrators, the president's office said in a statement on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Nasheed was the first democratically elected president of the Maldives and has been an outspoken critic of hardline Islamists. He served as president from 2008 until 2012 when he resigned amid public protests.</p>

<p>The special envoy is mandated to ensure that all stages of the investigation, prosecution and trial and any related and necessary inquiries, comply with international best practice and national laws to ensure public confidence in the integrity of these processes.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-police-key-suspect-arrested-in-nasheed-attack-383853">Maldives police: Key suspect arrested in Nasheed attack</a></strong></p>

<p>Faiz's oversight of the ongoing investigation will be conducted within the parameters set by the Prosecutor General.<br />
Faiz has more than 30 years of experience monitoring the human rights situation in South Asia, including the Maldives.</p>

<p>He was previously employed at Amnesty International as the most senior advisor to the Secretary-General on the countries in his brief and has worked as a Lecturer in Law in the Schools of Law, Essex University, UK, for the past three years.</p>

<p>He will be stationed at the President's Office. The President's Office will provide all support and administrative assistance sought by the Special Envoy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-maldives-president-mohamed-nasheed-critical-say-doctors-after-bomb-attack-383531">Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed critical, say doctors after bomb attack</a></strong></p>

<p>There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack. Three persons have been arrested so far for their alleged involvement in the attack, according to reports.</p>

<p>Nasheed is currently serving as the Speaker in Parliament, which is the Indian Ocean nation's second-most-powerful position.</p>


Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has appointed a veteran British human rights expert as the special envoy to monitor the investigation, prosecution and trial of those involved in the terrorist attack against Parliament Speaker and former president Mohamed Nasheed.

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has appointed a veteran British human rights expert as the special envoy to monitor the investigation, prosecution and trial of those involved in the terrorist attack against Parliament Speaker and former president Mohamed Nasheed. Nasheed, 54, was injured in a blast near his home in Male on May 6. Also Read | Former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed injured in a suspected bomb attack According to the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), the blast occurred when an IED strapped to a motorcycle detonated. Multiple surgeries were performed on Nasheed at a hospital in Male, and he has since been airlifted to Germany for further treatment, local media reported. Also Read | Maldives' former president flown to Germany after bomb attack Abbas Faiz has been appointed as the special envoy to the government of Maldives to monitor the investigation, prosecution and trial of alleged perpetrators, the president's office said in a statement on Wednesday. Nasheed was the first democratically elected president of the Maldives and has been an outspoken critic of hardline Islamists. He served as president from 2008 until 2012 when he resigned amid public protests. The special envoy is mandated to ensure that all stages of the investigation, prosecution and trial and any related and necessary inquiries, comply with international best practice and national laws to ensure public confidence in the integrity of these processes. Also Read | Maldives police: Key suspect arrested in Nasheed attack Faiz's oversight of the ongoing investigation will be conducted within the parameters set by the Prosecutor General. Faiz has more than 30 years of experience monitoring the human rights situation in South Asia, including the Maldives. He was previously employed at Amnesty International as the most senior advisor to the Secretary-General on the countries in his brief and has worked as a Lecturer in Law in the Schools of Law, Essex University, UK, for the past three years. He will be stationed at the President's Office. The President's Office will provide all support and administrative assistance sought by the Special Envoy. Also Read | Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed critical, say doctors after bomb attack There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack. Three persons have been arrested so far for their alleged involvement in the attack, according to reports. Nasheed is currently serving as the Speaker in Parliament, which is the Indian Ocean nation's second-most-powerful position.

Maldivian President appoints special envoy to monitor probe into attack on Nasheed

<p>Former Australian batsman and Chennai Super Kings' batting coach Michael Hussey recovered a few days ago after testing positive for coronavirus and is now set to fly back home.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-set-to-incur-losses-of-over-usd-217-million-after-ipl-2021-postponement-382785" hreflang="en">BCCI set to incur losses of over USD 217 million after IPL 2021 postponement</a></p>

<p>Hussey was the only Australian left in India after the suspension of IPL 2021 as he was amongst those who tested positive for COVID-19 inside the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to ESPNcricinfo, the Australian contingent, who were part of IPL 2021 and were living in the Maldives after the Australian government had banned direct and indirect flights from India, will also fly home tomorrow (May 17). &nbsp;The travel ban ended on May 15 and a flight from India has also reached Australia.</p>

<p>Australian unit will fly back home via Doha on a BCCI charter flight while Hussey will reach home on a commercial flight via Doha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to lose over INR 2000 crore (US$ 217 million) of the broadcast and sponsorship money from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was indefinitely postponed on Tuesday owing to a rise in COVID-19 cases across teams.</p>

<p>The BCCI was forced to postpone the IPL 2021 after multiple cases of COVID-19 were reported among players and support staff from Ahmedabad and New Delhi in the last couple of days.</p>


Former Australian batsman and Chennai Super Kings' batting coach Michael Hussey recovered a few days ago after testing positive for coronavirus and is now set to fly back home.

Former Australian batsman and Chennai Super Kings' batting coach Michael Hussey recovered a few days ago after testing positive for coronavirus and is now set to fly back home. ALSO READ: BCCI set to incur losses of over USD 217 million after IPL 2021 postponement Hussey was the only Australian left in India after the suspension of IPL 2021 as he was amongst those who tested positive for COVID-19 inside the bio-secure bubble. According to ESPNcricinfo, the Australian contingent, who were part of IPL 2021 and were living in the Maldives after the Australian government had banned direct and indirect flights from India, will also fly home tomorrow (May 17). The travel ban ended on May 15 and a flight from India has also reached Australia. Australian unit will fly back home via Doha on a BCCI charter flight while Hussey will reach home on a commercial flight via Doha. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to lose over INR 2000 crore (US$ 217 million) of the broadcast and sponsorship money from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was indefinitely postponed on Tuesday owing to a rise in COVID-19 cases across teams. The BCCI was forced to postpone the IPL 2021 after multiple cases of COVID-19 were reported among players and support staff from Ahmedabad and New Delhi in the last couple of days.

Australian contingent and Mike Hussey set to fly back home on Monday: Reports

<p>Days after former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed was critically wounded in an assassination attempt, he has been flown out to Germany for further treatment.</p>

<p>Nasheed, a 53-year-old leader, had gone through a 16-hour long surgery to remove shrapnel from his liver, lungs and abdomen after which he was discharged on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/third-arrest-in-manhunt-after-maldives-bomb-attack-383853" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/third-arrest-in-manhunt-after-maldives-bomb-attack-383853&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjUj-jUk8bwAhXiH7cAHSV9A5c4ChAWMAB6BAgJEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1pVvlN-6eSeyq8d9FpTZ7M" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/third-arrest-in-manhunt-after-maldives-bomb-attack-383853" target="_blank">Third arrest in manhunt after&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;bomb attack</a></strong></p>

<p>The climate activist was targeted with a remote-controlled bomb attached to a motorbike in the capital city Male a week ago.</p>

<p>He was taken to the airport in an ambulance, which was heavily guarded with security personnel, where a special airplane was waiting to fly him to Germany for further treatment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/im-good-says-former-maldives-president-nasheed-after-surviving-bomb-blast-383678">'I'm good', says former Maldives president Nasheed after surviving bomb blast&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>“A special thanks to the health sector of the Maldives,” Nasheed said. “By the grace of Allah, I remain committed to delivering democratic good governance for the people”</p>

<p>The hospital staff had also posted a picture of the former president, dressed in a blue hospital shirt, with four staff members.</p>


Days after former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed was critically wounded in an assassination attempt, he has been flown out to Germany for further treatment. Nasheed, a 53-year-old leader, had gone through a 16-hour long surgery to remove shrapnel from his liver, lungs and abdomen after which he was discharged on Thursday.

Days after former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed was critically wounded in an assassination attempt, he has been flown out to Germany for further treatment. Nasheed, a 53-year-old leader, had gone through a 16-hour long surgery to remove shrapnel from his liver, lungs and abdomen after which he was discharged on Thursday. Also read | Third arrest in manhunt after Maldives bomb attack The climate activist was targeted with a remote-controlled bomb attached to a motorbike in the capital city Male a week ago. He was taken to the airport in an ambulance, which was heavily guarded with security personnel, where a special airplane was waiting to fly him to Germany for further treatment. Also read | 'I'm good', says former Maldives president Nasheed after surviving bomb blast “A special thanks to the health sector of the Maldives,” Nasheed said. “By the grace of Allah, I remain committed to delivering democratic good governance for the people” The hospital staff had also posted a picture of the former president, dressed in a blue hospital shirt, with four staff members.

Maldives' former president flown to Germany after bomb attack

<p>The&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;on Wednesday banned&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;from across&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;in a bid to contain surging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections despite having one of the world's most successful vaccination roll-outs.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka and other countries in the region have also imposed travel restrictions as they battle a new wave of the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;that has hit India and its neighbours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-bans-travellers-from-india-with-immediate-effect-383172">Sri Lanka bans travellers from India with immediate effect</a></strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;Maldives, whose economy relies on tourists visiting its pristine atolls, has suffered a more than 15-fold increase in daily infections in the past week.</p>

<p>The Indian Ocean nation, which halted international flights for more than three months last year, saw a record single-day rise of 1,500&nbsp;cases&nbsp;on Tuesday, compared with less than 100 just one month ago.</p>

<p>Authorities said tourist arrivals from the key Indian market and other&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asian countries would stop from Thursday. They have already banned the entry of foreign labourers from around&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;except for health workers.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-influx-of-tourists-lead-to-high-infection-rate-in-maldives-383961/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"These restrictions apply to&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;originating from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka,"&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;Immigration said in a statement.</p>

<p>Anyone who has only transited through&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;would also be included, it added.</p>

<p>Indians have been the largest single group of visitors to the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;this year. Bollywood stars such as Alia Bhatt and her partner Ranbir Kapoor are among celebrities to have been pictured using the country as an escape from the pandemic.</p>

<p>Travellers&nbsp;from other countries are still permitted to travel to the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;with a negative coronavirus test but are not allowed to have contact with the local population.</p>

<p>A curfew from 9 pm to 4 am has been extended to start at 4 pm as part of measures to counter the&nbsp;virus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-imposes-night-curfew-after-steep-jump-in-covid-19-infections-383421">Maldives imposes night curfew after steep jump in COVID-19 infections</a></strong></p>

<p>Neighbouring Sri Lanka has also announced a night curfew until the end of the month and ordered a three-day shutdown from Friday as part of its anti-virus&nbsp;campaign.</p>

<p>People have been banned from travelling outside of their home provinces after medical experts warned Sri Lanka's healthcare system could collapse unless immediate lockdown measures were implemented.</p>

<p>About 60 per cent of the&nbsp;Maldives' resident population of 515,000 has received a shot, one of the world's highest figures, but less than a quarter have had two injections, a top UN official said.</p>

<p>But the UN Resident Coordinator in the&nbsp;Maldives, Catherine Haswell, told AFP that more than half the population aged between 18 and 29 were yet to receive the first jab.</p>

<p>"At least 80 to 90 percent of the population needs to vaccinated with both doses to reach herd immunity," Haswell said.</p>


The Maldives on Wednesday banned travellers from across South Asia in a bid to contain surging COVID-19 infections despite having one of the world's most successful vaccination roll-outs.

The Maldives on Wednesday banned travellers from across South Asia in a bid to contain surging COVID-19 infections despite having one of the world's most successful vaccination roll-outs. Sri Lanka and other countries in the region have also imposed travel restrictions as they battle a new wave of the virus that has hit India and its neighbours. Also read | Sri Lanka bans travellers from India with immediate effect The Maldives, whose economy relies on tourists visiting its pristine atolls, has suffered a more than 15-fold increase in daily infections in the past week. The Indian Ocean nation, which halted international flights for more than three months last year, saw a record single-day rise of 1,500 cases on Tuesday, compared with less than 100 just one month ago. Authorities said tourist arrivals from the key Indian market and other South Asian countries would stop from Thursday. They have already banned the entry of foreign labourers from around South Asia except for health workers. "These restrictions apply to travellers originating from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka," Maldives Immigration said in a statement. Anyone who has only transited through South Asia would also be included, it added. Indians have been the largest single group of visitors to the Maldives this year. Bollywood stars such as Alia Bhatt and her partner Ranbir Kapoor are among celebrities to have been pictured using the country as an escape from the pandemic. Travellers from other countries are still permitted to travel to the Maldives with a negative coronavirus test but are not allowed to have contact with the local population. A curfew from 9 pm to 4 am has been extended to start at 4 pm as part of measures to counter the virus. Also read | Maldives imposes night curfew after steep jump in COVID-19 infections Neighbouring Sri Lanka has also announced a night curfew until the end of the month and ordered a three-day shutdown from Friday as part of its anti-virus campaign. People have been banned from travelling outside of their home provinces after medical experts warned Sri Lanka's healthcare system could collapse unless immediate lockdown measures were implemented. About 60 per cent of the Maldives' resident population of 515,000 has received a shot, one of the world's highest figures, but less than a quarter have had two injections, a top UN official said. But the UN Resident Coordinator in the Maldives, Catherine Haswell, told AFP that more than half the population aged between 18 and 29 were yet to receive the first jab. "At least 80 to 90 percent of the population needs to vaccinated with both doses to reach herd immunity," Haswell said.

Maldives bans South Asia travellers as virus cases soar

<p>A third man has been arrested following the attempted assassination of Maldives' former president Mohamed Nasheed, police said Sunday, as they renewed an appeal for more information about another suspect.</p>

<p>The arrested person is believed to be the prime suspect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The democracy pioneer and climate activist was seriously hurt after a bomb attack in the capital Male on Thursday night that also injured a British national and two others, which police have blamed on "religious extremists".</p>

<p>"We can confirm that a third individual has been arrested in connection with the May 6 attack early today," police said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Nasheed attacked: India in touch with Maldives, support extended">Nasheed attacked: India in touch with Maldives, support extended</a></strong></p>

<p>No further details about the man were released.</p>

<p>Police also appealed for more information about another man seen in the area where a motorcycle that the bomb had been rigged to was parked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed critical, say doctors after bomb attack">Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed critical, say doctors after bomb attack</a></strong></p>

<p>The owner of the motorcycle as well as another man were arrested on Saturday.</p>

<p>The bomb detonated as Nasheed walked to his car.</p>

<p>Family members tweeted that the 53-year-old ex-president, now the parliament's speaker, remained in the intensive care unit of a hospital.</p>

<p>But he was able to speak to close relatives on Saturday after no longer needing life support, they added. There was no immediate update on his condition from the hospital.</p>

<p>Nasheed underwent 16 hours of surgery to remove shrapnel from his body and doctors said one shard narrowly missed his heart.</p>

<p>There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack, but officials from Nasheed's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have alleged that religious extremists and political interests could be involved.</p>

<p>The Indian Ocean archipelago of 340,000 people is Muslim majority and in October 2019 police arrested a suspected Islamic State recruiter accused of sending dozens of Maldivians to Syria.</p>

<p>The same man was accused of setting off a homemade bomb that wounded 12 Chinese tourists in Male in September 2007.</p>

<p>Nasheed ended decades of one-party rule in the Maldives and became its first democratically-elected president in 2008, only to be toppled in a military-backed coup in 2012.</p>

<p>He is known internationally as a champion in the fight against climate change and rising sea levels that he says threaten to submerge the nation of 1,192 coral islands.</p>


A third man has been arrested following the attempted assassination of Maldives' former president Mohamed Nasheed, police said Sunday, as they renewed an appeal for more information about another suspect.

A third man has been arrested following the attempted assassination of Maldives' former president Mohamed Nasheed, police said Sunday, as they renewed an appeal for more information about another suspect. The arrested person is believed to be the prime suspect. The democracy pioneer and climate activist was seriously hurt after a bomb attack in the capital Male on Thursday night that also injured a British national and two others, which police have blamed on "religious extremists". "We can confirm that a third individual has been arrested in connection with the May 6 attack early today," police said in a statement. Also read | Nasheed attacked: India in touch with Maldives, support extended No further details about the man were released. Police also appealed for more information about another man seen in the area where a motorcycle that the bomb had been rigged to was parked. Also read | Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed critical, say doctors after bomb attack The owner of the motorcycle as well as another man were arrested on Saturday. The bomb detonated as Nasheed walked to his car. Family members tweeted that the 53-year-old ex-president, now the parliament's speaker, remained in the intensive care unit of a hospital. But he was able to speak to close relatives on Saturday after no longer needing life support, they added. There was no immediate update on his condition from the hospital. Nasheed underwent 16 hours of surgery to remove shrapnel from his body and doctors said one shard narrowly missed his heart. There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack, but officials from Nasheed's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have alleged that religious extremists and political interests could be involved. The Indian Ocean archipelago of 340,000 people is Muslim majority and in October 2019 police arrested a suspected Islamic State recruiter accused of sending dozens of Maldivians to Syria. The same man was accused of setting off a homemade bomb that wounded 12 Chinese tourists in Male in September 2007. Nasheed ended decades of one-party rule in the Maldives and became its first democratically-elected president in 2008, only to be toppled in a military-backed coup in 2012. He is known internationally as a champion in the fight against climate change and rising sea levels that he says threaten to submerge the nation of 1,192 coral islands.

Maldives police: Key suspect arrested in Nasheed attack

Vaccination queues in the Maldives have also lengthened during Ramadan due to shortened hours, with thousands lining up without any physical distancing to get their shots.

COVID-19: Influx of tourists lead to high infection rate in Maldives

<p>India is in touch with Maldives authorities in the aftermath of the attack on the former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed. Nasheed who is the current speaker of the Maldives Parliament was injured in a bomb blast on Thursday evening. He has been hospitalised since then.</p>

<p>As part of the engagement between the two countries, Maldives regularly gets security assistance from India, a close ally. This time is no exception. India was the first country to react after the attack. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had expressed his concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Deeply concerned at the attack on Speaker @MohamedNasheed. Wish him a speedy recovery. Know that he will never be intimidated," Jaishankar had tweeted on Thursday.</p>

<p>According to the ADK Hospital in Male, where Nasheed is admitted, he has undergone number of life-saving surgeries on injuries to his head, chest, abdomen, and limbs. He is off life support and has also spoken to his family.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Maldives police have announced that they have arrested individuals in connection with Thursday's blast and have also released pictures. Officers from London's Metropolitan Police and Australian police will also be part of the investigation. The attack on Nasheed is being treated as a terror attack by local authorities.</p>


India is in touch with Maldives authorities in the aftermath of the attack on the former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed. Nasheed who is the current speaker of the Maldives Parliament was injured in a bomb blast on Thursday evening.

India is in touch with Maldives authorities in the aftermath of the attack on the former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed. Nasheed who is the current speaker of the Maldives Parliament was injured in a bomb blast on Thursday evening. He has been hospitalised since then. As part of the engagement between the two countries, Maldives regularly gets security assistance from India, a close ally. This time is no exception. India was the first country to react after the attack. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had expressed his concern. "Deeply concerned at the attack on Speaker @MohamedNasheed. Wish him a speedy recovery. Know that he will never be intimidated," Jaishankar had tweeted on Thursday. According to the ADK Hospital in Male, where Nasheed is admitted, he has undergone number of life-saving surgeries on injuries to his head, chest, abdomen, and limbs. He is off life support and has also spoken to his family. Meanwhile, the Maldives police have announced that they have arrested individuals in connection with Thursday's blast and have also released pictures. Officers from London's Metropolitan Police and Australian police will also be part of the investigation. The attack on Nasheed is being treated as a terror attack by local authorities.

Nasheed attacked: India in touch with Maldives, support extended

<p>Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed is conscious after life-saving surgery, his family said on Saturday, as police made two arrests in connection with a blast they said was being treated as a terror attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasheed, the president of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party and the current parliament speaker, was critically injured after a bomb exploded as he left his family home in the capital Male on Thursday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Police on Saturday said they had made two arrests in connection with the blast, without giving further details. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm good," Nasheed said after coming off life support, according to a tweet by his sister Nashida Sattar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His brother, Ibrahim Nashid, said doctors were happy with Nasheed's recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He is out of life support and breathing on his own," he said in a tweet. "Managed to exchange a few words. Promised to come back stronger. I believe him." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasheed, the Maldives' first democratically-elected president, is an outspoken critic of Islamic extremism in the Sunni Muslim island archipelago, and has been instrumental in investigating graft allegations against opposition leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country has a reputation for political unrest. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasheed was deposed and exiled in what he called a coup in 2012, while in 2015, former President Abdulla Yameen escaped unharmed after an explosion on his speedboat. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2007, a blast that was blamed on Islamist militants targeted foreign tourists and injured 12 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed is conscious after life-saving surgery, his family said on Saturday, as police made two arrests in connection with a blast they said was being treated as a terror attack.

Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed is conscious after life-saving surgery, his family said on Saturday, as police made two arrests in connection with a blast they said was being treated as a terror attack. Nasheed, the president of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party and the current parliament speaker, was critically injured after a bomb exploded as he left his family home in the capital Male on Thursday. Police on Saturday said they had made two arrests in connection with the blast, without giving further details. "I'm good," Nasheed said after coming off life support, according to a tweet by his sister Nashida Sattar. His brother, Ibrahim Nashid, said doctors were happy with Nasheed's recovery. "He is out of life support and breathing on his own," he said in a tweet. "Managed to exchange a few words. Promised to come back stronger. I believe him." Nasheed, the Maldives' first democratically-elected president, is an outspoken critic of Islamic extremism in the Sunni Muslim island archipelago, and has been instrumental in investigating graft allegations against opposition leaders. The country has a reputation for political unrest. Nasheed was deposed and exiled in what he called a coup in 2012, while in 2015, former President Abdulla Yameen escaped unharmed after an explosion on his speedboat. In 2007, a blast that was blamed on Islamist militants targeted foreign tourists and injured 12 people. (With inputs from agencies)

'I'm good', says former Maldives president Nasheed after surviving bomb blast 

<p>Maldives&nbsp;began a&nbsp;night-time&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;from Thursday to control a doubling of daily coronavirus&nbsp;infections&nbsp;that was fuelled by crowds at a local election and family gatherings during the ongoing Muslim fasting month of Ramzan.</p>

<p>The Health Protection Agency announced the&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;after&nbsp;government data showed daily cases grew to 734 from 318 a week ago. Most of the cases reported on Wednesday were in the crowded capital Male.</p>

<p>Restrictions have been placed on movement between islands, although there are no curbs on tourists headed to private island resorts if they can produce a negative&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;test. The health agency also ordered mandatory physical distancing in mosques.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed injured in a suspected bomb attack">Former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed injured in a suspected bomb attack</a></strong></p>

<p>"The numbers are very high. If we are not able to significantly lower these numbers, we are going to face very difficult days. So we have to get ready," said Mabrook Azeez, the spokesman for the President's Office.</p>

<p>There were large gatherings during the council elections held on April 10, and mass groupings have only increased during Ramzan, with communal prayers being held without any physical distancing in the capital Male.</p>

<p>Australian cricketers and staff involved in the Indian Premier League are headed to the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;after&nbsp;the tournament's abrupt suspension over the coronavirus crisis in India. They will quarantine there before heading home.</p>

<p>Vaccination queues in the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;have also lengthened during Ramadan due to shortened hours, with thousands lining up without any physical distancing to get their shots.</p>

<p>Azeez said the government is looking for foreign medical workers and local volunteers to staff the main public hospital in Male.</p>


Maldives began a night-time curfew from Thursday to control a doubling of daily coronavirus infections that was fuelled by crowds at a local election and family gatherings during the ongoing Muslim fasting month of Ramzan.

Maldives began a night-time curfew from Thursday to control a doubling of daily coronavirus infections that was fuelled by crowds at a local election and family gatherings during the ongoing Muslim fasting month of Ramzan. The Health Protection Agency announced the curfew on Wednesday after government data showed daily cases grew to 734 from 318 a week ago. Most of the cases reported on Wednesday were in the crowded capital Male. Restrictions have been placed on movement between islands, although there are no curbs on tourists headed to private island resorts if they can produce a negative COVID-19 test. The health agency also ordered mandatory physical distancing in mosques. Also read: Former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed injured in a suspected bomb attack "The numbers are very high. If we are not able to significantly lower these numbers, we are going to face very difficult days. So we have to get ready," said Mabrook Azeez, the spokesman for the President's Office. There were large gatherings during the council elections held on April 10, and mass groupings have only increased during Ramzan, with communal prayers being held without any physical distancing in the capital Male. Australian cricketers and staff involved in the Indian Premier League are headed to the Maldives after the tournament's abrupt suspension over the coronavirus crisis in India. They will quarantine there before heading home. Vaccination queues in the Maldives have also lengthened during Ramadan due to shortened hours, with thousands lining up without any physical distancing to get their shots. Azeez said the government is looking for foreign medical workers and local volunteers to staff the main public hospital in Male.

Maldives imposes night curfew after steep jump in COVID-19 infections

Parliament speaker and former President of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed has been injured in a terrorist attack near his residence. According to reports, Islamic state has taken responsibility for the attack.

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed injured in terrorist attack

News Alert: Maldives Speaker Mohd Nasheed’s condition critical post surgeries

<p>A day after Former Maldives president <strong>Mohamed Nasheed </strong>narrowly survived an assassination attempt in Male, the hospital where he is admitted said he remains "critical".</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-maldives-president-mohamed-nasheed-injured-in-terrorist-attack-383371/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Nasheed, 53, was rushed to hospital after an explosion late Thursday. The former president reportedly received injuries to his head, chest, limbs and abdomen after the explosion and remains in <strong>intensive care</strong>.</p>

<p>The doctors said shrapnel from the blast was removed from Nasheed's<strong> lungs </strong>and the liver, however, another piece was still in the same organ.</p>

<p>President Ibrahim <strong>Mohamed Solih</strong> said a team from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) would help with the investigation into the blast, including the <strong>United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime</strong>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Maldives president said those behind the crime "would face the full force of the law".<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A day after Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed narrowly survived an assassination attempt in Male, the hospital where he is admitted said he remains "critical".

A day after Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed narrowly survived an assassination attempt in Male, the hospital where he is admitted said he remains "critical". Watch: Nasheed, 53, was rushed to hospital after an explosion late Thursday. The former president reportedly received injuries to his head, chest, limbs and abdomen after the explosion and remains in intensive care. The doctors said shrapnel from the blast was removed from Nasheed's lungs and the liver, however, another piece was still in the same organ. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said a team from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) would help with the investigation into the blast, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The Maldives president said those behind the crime "would face the full force of the law".

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed critical, say doctors after bomb attack

Maldives, the island nation famous among Indians for spending leisure time. As India records the deadly second wave, there are travel restrictions in place on Indian holiday makers. Cases are surging in other countries as well as of now. So what happens to the tourism sector of Maldives?

Maldives' Minister of Tourism Dr Abdulla Mausoom speaks to WION

<p>Several Australian players, coaches, and commentators part of the Indian Premier League 2021 will be moving out of India within the next few days after the cash-rich league was indefinitely suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the bubble.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-set-to-incur-losses-of-over-usd-217-million-after-ipl-2021-postponement-382785" hreflang="en">BCCI set to incur losses of over USD 217 million after IPL 2021 postponement</a></p>

<p>Cricket Australia's interim chief executive Nick Hockley said that BCCI is working on getting a unit of 38 personnel safely out of India to either Maldives or Sri Lanka first before being allowed to head back to their homes.</p>

<p>“What we and the BCCI are working to do is to move the entire cohort out of India, where they will then wait until it’s possible to return to Australia,” Cricket Australia's interim chief executive Nick Hockley said, as quoted by the Guardian.</p>

<p>The Australian government imposed a travel ban on all flights from India until May 15 due to a massive surge in COVID-19 in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The BCCI has been working on a range of options. That’s now narrowed down to the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The BCCI are working through the final details of that at the moment and we expect that movement will happen in the next two to three days.”</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to lose over INR 2000 crore (US$ 217 million) of the broadcast and sponsorship money from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was indefinitely postponed on Tuesday owing to a rise in COVID-19 cases across teams.</p>

<p>The BCCI was forced to postpone the IPL 2021 after multiple cases of COVID-19 were reported among players and support staff from Ahmedabad and New Delhi in the last couple of days.</p>


Several Australian players, coaches, and commentators part of the Indian Premier League 2021 will be moving out of India within the next few days after the cash-rich league was indefinitely suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the bubble.

Several Australian players, coaches, and commentators part of the Indian Premier League 2021 will be moving out of India within the next few days after the cash-rich league was indefinitely suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the bubble. ALSO READ: BCCI set to incur losses of over USD 217 million after IPL 2021 postponement Cricket Australia's interim chief executive Nick Hockley said that BCCI is working on getting a unit of 38 personnel safely out of India to either Maldives or Sri Lanka first before being allowed to head back to their homes. “What we and the BCCI are working to do is to move the entire cohort out of India, where they will then wait until it’s possible to return to Australia,” Cricket Australia's interim chief executive Nick Hockley said, as quoted by the Guardian. The Australian government imposed a travel ban on all flights from India until May 15 due to a massive surge in COVID-19 in India. “The BCCI has been working on a range of options. That’s now narrowed down to the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The BCCI are working through the final details of that at the moment and we expect that movement will happen in the next two to three days.” The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to lose over INR 2000 crore (US$ 217 million) of the broadcast and sponsorship money from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was indefinitely postponed on Tuesday owing to a rise in COVID-19 cases across teams. The BCCI was forced to postpone the IPL 2021 after multiple cases of COVID-19 were reported among players and support staff from Ahmedabad and New Delhi in the last couple of days.

Australian players will go home via Sri Lanka or the Maldives after IPL suspension: Cricket Australia

<p>The Maldives is still welcoming Bollywood stars and other rich Indians to its secluded beaches and crystal-clear lagoons even as countries ban flights because of a brutal Covid surge.</p>

<p>The Indian Ocean archipelago of more than a thousand islands reopened its international borders in mid-July after being shut for three months, and Indians have accounted for the most visitors.</p>

<p>This week, as a string of other countries banned visitors from India, the Maldives government made only slight changes to its rules for passengers from its giant neighbour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: These countries are latest to impose restrictions on Indian travellers</strong></p>

<p>Holidaymakers arriving from India now can only stay at a resort or a safari boat and are not allowed to check into guest houses in inhabited islands where locals also live.</p>

<p>"The geographical location of our islets help us to minimise the (virus) risk," Thoyyib Mohamed, the head of the country's tourism authority, Visit Maldives, told AFP.</p>

<p>"Each islet is a self-contained single resort. Even if we have a few cases popping up here and there, we can contain it within the resorts without exposing the local population."</p>

<p>Thoyyib said that they have also launched a campaign to vaccinate the entire workforce of 50,000 in the tourism sector and many others providing services relating to the hospitality trade.</p>

<p>"We want to be the first fully vaccinated tourism sector in the world," Thoyyib told AFP by telephone. He said about 90 percent of workers were already vaccinated.</p>

<p>Media reports have suggested that the Maldives might even offer Covid vaccines to foreign visitors.</p>

<p>But officials said they had no such immediate plans until all Maldivians and resident non-nationals had received both doses of the AstraZeneca or the Sinopharm vaccine.</p>

<p>More than two-thirds of its 330,000 population has already received their first dose, according to health ministry figures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has reported just over 29,000 virus infections with 73 deaths, although case numbers have been rising sharply in recent weeks.</p>

<p>Thoyyib said there was a decline in the number of Indians visiting in the past week but they remained the largest single group of visitors to the archipelago this year.</p>

<p>Bollywood stars escaping India in recent weeks include Alia Bhatt, her partner Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor, who posted Instagram photos of herself doing yoga at sunset at a Maldives resort.</p>

<p>Press reports suggest that private jet firms have seen a surge in demand to Europe, the Middle East and the Maldives, including from people clubbing together to hire an aircraft.</p>

<p>"It’s not only the ultra rich," Rajan Mehra, head New Delhi-based private plane firm Club One Air told The Print. "Whoever can afford to take a private jet are taking private jets."</p>

<p>India on Friday reported 385,000&nbsp;new cases in the past 24 hours -- a new global record -- and almost 3,500 deaths,&nbsp;according to official data that many experts suspect falls short of the true toll.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the surge blamed on new virus variants and huge religious and political gatherings in recent months, India's hospitals are struggling to cope, particularly but not only in the capital New Delhi.</p>

<p>The Maldives attracted a record 1.7 million foreign tourists last year, a 15-percent increase from 2018, according to the government, with China the biggest source of visitors.</p>

<p>The numbers fell to 555,494 last year because of the pandemic, but was showing signs of a recovery. Some 381,000 tourists have visited so far this year. China has now dropped below the top 10.</p>


The Maldives is still welcoming Bollywood stars and other rich Indians to its secluded beaches and crystal-clear lagoons even as countries ban flights because of a brutal Covid surge.

The Maldives is still welcoming Bollywood stars and other rich Indians to its secluded beaches and crystal-clear lagoons even as countries ban flights because of a brutal Covid surge. The Indian Ocean archipelago of more than a thousand islands reopened its international borders in mid-July after being shut for three months, and Indians have accounted for the most visitors. This week, as a string of other countries banned visitors from India, the Maldives government made only slight changes to its rules for passengers from its giant neighbour. Also read: COVID-19: These countries are latest to impose restrictions on Indian travellers Holidaymakers arriving from India now can only stay at a resort or a safari boat and are not allowed to check into guest houses in inhabited islands where locals also live. "The geographical location of our islets help us to minimise the (virus) risk," Thoyyib Mohamed, the head of the country's tourism authority, Visit Maldives, told AFP. "Each islet is a self-contained single resort. Even if we have a few cases popping up here and there, we can contain it within the resorts without exposing the local population." Thoyyib said that they have also launched a campaign to vaccinate the entire workforce of 50,000 in the tourism sector and many others providing services relating to the hospitality trade. "We want to be the first fully vaccinated tourism sector in the world," Thoyyib told AFP by telephone. He said about 90 percent of workers were already vaccinated. Media reports have suggested that the Maldives might even offer Covid vaccines to foreign visitors. But officials said they had no such immediate plans until all Maldivians and resident non-nationals had received both doses of the AstraZeneca or the Sinopharm vaccine. More than two-thirds of its 330,000 population has already received their first dose, according to health ministry figures. It has reported just over 29,000 virus infections with 73 deaths, although case numbers have been rising sharply in recent weeks. Thoyyib said there was a decline in the number of Indians visiting in the past week but they remained the largest single group of visitors to the archipelago this year. Bollywood stars escaping India in recent weeks include Alia Bhatt, her partner Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor, who posted Instagram photos of herself doing yoga at sunset at a Maldives resort. Press reports suggest that private jet firms have seen a surge in demand to Europe, the Middle East and the Maldives, including from people clubbing together to hire an aircraft. "It’s not only the ultra rich," Rajan Mehra, head New Delhi-based private plane firm Club One Air told The Print. "Whoever can afford to take a private jet are taking private jets." India on Friday reported 385,000 new cases in the past 24 hours -- a new global record -- and almost 3,500 deaths, according to official data that many experts suspect falls short of the true toll. With the surge blamed on new virus variants and huge religious and political gatherings in recent months, India's hospitals are struggling to cope, particularly but not only in the capital New Delhi. The Maldives attracted a record 1.7 million foreign tourists last year, a 15-percent increase from 2018, according to the government, with China the biggest source of visitors. The numbers fell to 555,494 last year because of the pandemic, but was showing signs of a recovery. Some 381,000 tourists have visited so far this year. China has now dropped below the top 10.

Vacation from the virus: Maldives still welcoming rich Indians

Calling his country as "heart of the Indian ocean", Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid has called for a "peaceful, prosperous and stable" which is an "essential factor" for the "prosperity of Maldives". Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal during his ongoing Delhi visit, FM Abdulla said, "we will work with all our neighbors in making sure" the region continues to be peaceful."

"Important to have peaceful Indian Ocean", says Maldives FM Abdulla Shah

<p>Describing his country as "heart of the Indian Ocean", Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has called for a "peaceful, prosperous and stable" region which he feels is an "essential factor" for the "prosperity of Maldives".</p>

<p>Speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal during his ongoing Delhi visit, he said, "We will work with all our neighbours in making sure the region continues to be peaceful."</p>

<p>This has come at a time when India and Maldives are engaging in multiple ways on tackling challenges of the region such as terror and piracy, under a trilateral format with Sri Lanka — all three countries aim to better enhance the coordination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He lauded New Delhi for its vaccine outreach under the <strong>Vaccine Maitri initiative</strong>, saying, "We are very grateful to India for the vaccines it provided and the promptness with which it was provided."</p>

<p>The Maldives was one of the first countries to get made-in-India vaccines in January, just 48 hours after India began its mega domestic vaccination programme. He also appreciated India's support for his candidature for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you characterise the relations between the two countries?</p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong> I have been recently describing the relationship between Maldives and India like a flight of a bird. A bird takes flight because the two wings flap together in unison. If one wing doesn't flap then the bird cannot fly, the flight is not there. The Maldives-India relationship is like the flight of a bird because countries flap their wings together and it's moving into new heights.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> India has been providing support to many countries including the Maldives amid the pandemic. Vaccines have been sent out to your country. What are your thoughts on that?</p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;When India rolled out its vaccine programme Vaccine Maitri, Maldives received the gift of vaccines from India within 48 hours and we are very grateful for that.</p>

<p>We have been vaccinating our population and I am happy to say, 67 per cent of the population has been vaccinated now by the first dose. In the vaccination&nbsp;programme, in the rollout, we do not discriminate among nationalities or among any status. Everyone in the Maldives, irrespective of the status or nationalities will get the opportunity to get vaccinated. No one is safe till everyone is safe. We are very grateful to India for the vaccines it provided and the promptness with which it was provided. We are counting on India and the Serum Institute to make available more doses so that people, who have taken the first dose, can also be given the second dose during the required period of 8-12 weeks.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>How do you see the ongoing security situation in the Indian Ocean, the collaboration with the regional countries?</p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;The Maldives regards itself as the heart of the Indian Ocean. If you look at the Indian Ocean and compare it with the human body, Maldives lies where the heart lies and throughout ages, Maldives has been the route through which the travellers have been travelling, crossing the Indian Ocean. For us, it is very important that the Indian Ocean be a peaceful, prosperous, and stable regime, and also for the prosperity of Maldives, it is an essential factor. Also, for the prosperity of the Indian Ocean, it is essential Maldives be stable and essential. Therefore, we will work with all our neighbours in making sure that this is maintained.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> You are standing for President of the United Nations General Assembly. What is your country's main focus with this, considering you have got Indian support as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;President Solih came into office promising re-engagement with the international community. You would recall, when President Solih took office, we had already left the Commonwealth, the previous regime had left the grouping. We have been marginalised internationally. So, for President Solih, the first decision as President was to put the candidature of Maldives for the 76th session of the General Assembly. President Solih's decision to nominate me for the candidature is a great honour and a privilege for me. But it’s Maldives candidature and the support of the Indian government for the Maldives candidature is very much appreciated and it is a great honour for the country.</p>

<p>We have been able to work with many countries in many parts of the world and I have been meeting representatives, foreign ministers, ambassadors from many, many countries. The support for the Maldives and the standing that the Maldives has risen internationally since Maldives President took office and we are very confident in the candidature.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Since you landed in Delhi, you have had several engagements with many envoys and you will be meeting EAM. What is your main aim for this visit?</p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:&nbsp;</strong>The envoys I have been meeting today have not been to the Maldives, they haven't been able to come to the Maldives for over a year due to the pandemic. So I am using my Delhi visit to brief them about the situation in the Maldives and the steps we have been taking during the pandemic. Many envoys represent countries from where tourists visit the Maldives, so it's good to keep them briefed about the developments in the country.</p>

<p>I am looking forward to my meeting tomorrow with the EAM Jaishankar, with whom we are going to review the status of so many projects that are currently undertaken by the Maldives through Indian assistance.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>Since you mentioned tourism, a key sector of your economy, how is it going? What, perhaps will you say to Indian tourists coming to your country?</p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;We closed our borders on March 15, 2020. We reopened after three months on 15 July and India was the first country to have a travel bubble with the Maldives and we have been able to secure this travel arrangement between India and Maldives in such a way that tourists visiting the Maldives are safe. The [Covid case] numbers in the Maldives are coming down tremendously and the stay arrangements, the procedures that we have from the airport to the resorts, are very strict. The protocols are adhered to perfectly and it provides a safe passage to visitors.</p>

<p>Also, we are blessed with geography, we are an archipelago state, and the concept of one Island, one hotel makes it easy for any outbreak to be contained. So far we haven't got any outbreaks at any tourist resorts and we have been able to provide the tourists with secure confidence that they would require to be on holiday. My advice to all Indians is to come and visit us, gets some sun, sea and the beach.</p>


Describing his country as "heart of the Indian Ocean", Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has called for a "peaceful, prosperous and stable" region which he feels is an "essential factor" for the "prosperity of Maldives".

Describing his country as "heart of the Indian Ocean", Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has called for a "peaceful, prosperous and stable" region which he feels is an "essential factor" for the "prosperity of Maldives". Speaking exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal during his ongoing Delhi visit, he said, "We will work with all our neighbours in making sure the region continues to be peaceful." This has come at a time when India and Maldives are engaging in multiple ways on tackling challenges of the region such as terror and piracy, under a trilateral format with Sri Lanka — all three countries aim to better enhance the coordination. He lauded New Delhi for its vaccine outreach under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, saying, "We are very grateful to India for the vaccines it provided and the promptness with which it was provided." The Maldives was one of the first countries to get made-in-India vaccines in January, just 48 hours after India began its mega domestic vaccination programme. He also appreciated India's support for his candidature for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President. WION: How do you characterise the relations between the two countries? Abdulla Shahid: I have been recently describing the relationship between Maldives and India like a flight of a bird. A bird takes flight because the two wings flap together in unison. If one wing doesn't flap then the bird cannot fly, the flight is not there. The Maldives-India relationship is like the flight of a bird because countries flap their wings together and it's moving into new heights. WION: India has been providing support to many countries including the Maldives amid the pandemic. Vaccines have been sent out to your country. What are your thoughts on that? Abdulla Shahid: When India rolled out its vaccine programme Vaccine Maitri, Maldives received the gift of vaccines from India within 48 hours and we are very grateful for that. We have been vaccinating our population and I am happy to say, 67 per cent of the population has been vaccinated now by the first dose. In the vaccination programme, in the rollout, we do not discriminate among nationalities or among any status. Everyone in the Maldives, irrespective of the status or nationalities will get the opportunity to get vaccinated. No one is safe till everyone is safe. We are very grateful to India for the vaccines it provided and the promptness with which it was provided. We are counting on India and the Serum Institute to make available more doses so that people, who have taken the first dose, can also be given the second dose during the required period of 8-12 weeks. WION: How do you see the ongoing security situation in the Indian Ocean, the collaboration with the regional countries? Abdulla Shahid: The Maldives regards itself as the heart of the Indian Ocean. If you look at the Indian Ocean and compare it with the human body, Maldives lies where the heart lies and throughout ages, Maldives has been the route through which the travellers have been travelling, crossing the Indian Ocean. For us, it is very important that the Indian Ocean be a peaceful, prosperous, and stable regime, and also for the prosperity of Maldives, it is an essential factor. Also, for the prosperity of the Indian Ocean, it is essential Maldives be stable and essential. Therefore, we will work with all our neighbours in making sure that this is maintained. WION: You are standing for President of the United Nations General Assembly. What is your country's main focus with this, considering you have got Indian support as well. Abdulla Shahid: President Solih came into office promising re-engagement with the international community. You would recall, when President Solih took office, we had already left the Commonwealth, the previous regime had left the grouping. We have been marginalised internationally. So, for President Solih, the first decision as President was to put the candidature of Maldives for the 76th session of the General Assembly. President Solih's decision to nominate me for the candidature is a great honour and a privilege for me. But it’s Maldives candidature and the support of the Indian government for the Maldives candidature is very much appreciated and it is a great honour for the country. We have been able to work with many countries in many parts of the world and I have been meeting representatives, foreign ministers, ambassadors from many, many countries. The support for the Maldives and the standing that the Maldives has risen internationally since Maldives President took office and we are very confident in the candidature. WION: Since you landed in Delhi, you have had several engagements with many envoys and you will be meeting EAM. What is your main aim for this visit? Abdulla Shahid: The envoys I have been meeting today have not been to the Maldives, they haven't been able to come to the Maldives for over a year due to the pandemic. So I am using my Delhi visit to brief them about the situation in the Maldives and the steps we have been taking during the pandemic. Many envoys represent countries from where tourists visit the Maldives, so it's good to keep them briefed about the developments in the country. I am looking forward to my meeting tomorrow with the EAM Jaishankar, with whom we are going to review the status of so many projects that are currently undertaken by the Maldives through Indian assistance. WION: Since you mentioned tourism, a key sector of your economy, how is it going? What, perhaps will you say to Indian tourists coming to your country? Abdulla Shahid: We closed our borders on March 15, 2020. We reopened after three months on 15 July and India was the first country to have a travel bubble with the Maldives and we have been able to secure this travel arrangement between India and Maldives in such a way that tourists visiting the Maldives are safe. The [Covid case] numbers in the Maldives are coming down tremendously and the stay arrangements, the procedures that we have from the airport to the resorts, are very strict. The protocols are adhered to perfectly and it provides a safe passage to visitors. Also, we are blessed with geography, we are an archipelago state, and the concept of one Island, one hotel makes it easy for any outbreak to be contained. So far we haven't got any outbreaks at any tourist resorts and we have been able to provide the tourists with secure confidence that they would require to be on holiday. My advice to all Indians is to come and visit us, gets some sun, sea and the beach.

'Peaceful Indian Ocean important': Maldives FM; thanks India for support for UNGA prez candidature

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