In a bid to ease people-to-people contact between India and Maldives, both the countries on Tuesday exchanged Diplomatic Notes for the implementation of the Visa Facilitation Agreement.

The agreement introduces a liberal visa regime for Maldivian nationals who want to visit India for tourism, business, education and medical purposes and vice versa. The agreement also makes it easier for Indians to travel to the Maldives for business purposes.&nbsp;

The agreement will be effective from March 11, 2019, after, "all formalities including information being provided to all Immigration Offices, border points and customs authorities have been completed,"&nbsp;the MEA noted in its release.&nbsp;

Diplomatic Notes are exchanged after the Cabinet's approval and President's signature.

The Visa Facilitation Agreement was signed during the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-president-solihs-visit-maldives-resets-india-first-policy-india-reciprocates-with-14-bn-aid-package-184877">Maldivian President Ibrahim Solih's visit to India</a> on December 17, 2018. During the visit, President Solih had said that the agreement will facilitate many Maldivians who send their children for education to India. It will also facilitate easier visa arrangements for Maldivian citizens and their families to come to India for medical treatment.

Indians form the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000 people living in the island nation. The Indian community is also crucial to the Maldivian economy, consisting of workers as well as professionals like doctors, teachers, accountants, managers, engineers, nurses and technicians.&nbsp;

Around 25 per cent of teachers in the island country is from India.

In a bid to ease people-to-people contact between India and Maldives, both the countries on Tuesday exchanged Diplomatic Notes for the implementation of the Visa Facilitation Agreement.

In a bid to ease people-to-people contact between India and Maldives, both the countries on Tuesday exchanged Diplomatic Notes for the implementation of the Visa Facilitation Agreement. The agreement introduces a liberal visa regime for Maldivian nationals who want to visit India for tourism, business, education and medical purposes and vice versa. The agreement also makes it easier for Indians to travel to the Maldives for business purposes. The agreement will be effective from March 11, 2019, after, "all formalities including information being provided to all Immigration Offices, border points and customs authorities have been completed," the MEA noted in its release. Diplomatic Notes are exchanged after the Cabinet's approval and President's signature. The Visa Facilitation Agreement was signed during the Maldivian President Ibrahim Solih's visit to India on December 17, 2018. During the visit, President Solih had said that the agreement will facilitate many Maldivians who send their children for education to India. It will also facilitate easier visa arrangements for Maldivian citizens and their families to come to India for medical treatment. Indians form the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000 people living in the island nation. The Indian community is also crucial to the Maldivian economy, consisting of workers as well as professionals like doctors, teachers, accountants, managers, engineers, nurses and technicians. Around 25 per cent of teachers in the island country is from India.

India, Maldives to implement liberalised visa regime

Sri Lankan authorities arrested four Maldivian nationals, including a woman, for illegally operating a drone near the country's main international airport, police said Sunday.

The suspects were taken into custody on Saturday night after they were seen using a drone within the high-security zone of the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), police said in a statement.

"They were filming the airport area with the drone. Investigations are continuing," police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said. "The suspects -- aged between 19 and 23 -- will be produced before a magistrate today."

It was the first arrest in the country in connection with the illegal operation of a drone near an airport.&nbsp;

The incident came hours before Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was due to arrive in Sri Lanka to attend the country's 71st national day ceremony in Colombo.

Operating any kind of drone near airports is banned while drone photography and aerial mapping are also highly regulated by civil aviation authorities.

Air traffic controllers at the BIA said there were no disruptions to international flights on Saturday.&nbsp;

However, drones have caused flight disruptions in recent weeks in London and New York.

Sri Lankan authorities arrested four Maldivian nationals, including a woman, for illegally operating a drone near the country's main international airport, police said Sunday.

Sri Lankan authorities arrested four Maldivian nationals, including a woman, for illegally operating a drone near the country's main international airport, police said Sunday. The suspects were taken into custody on Saturday night after they were seen using a drone within the high-security zone of the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), police said in a statement. "They were filming the airport area with the drone. Investigations are continuing," police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said. "The suspects -- aged between 19 and 23 -- will be produced before a magistrate today." It was the first arrest in the country in connection with the illegal operation of a drone near an airport. The incident came hours before Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was due to arrive in Sri Lanka to attend the country's 71st national day ceremony in Colombo. Operating any kind of drone near airports is banned while drone photography and aerial mapping are also highly regulated by civil aviation authorities. Air traffic controllers at the BIA said there were no disruptions to international flights on Saturday. However, drones have caused flight disruptions in recent weeks in London and New York.

Sri Lanka arrests Maldivians flying drone near airport

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/budget-will-take-india-on-path-to-development-pm-modi-194378">interim Budget saw India</a> increase its contribution substantially to the Maldives while bringing support to SAARC and BIMSTEC Secretariat at the same level.

According to Budget estimates for 2019-2020, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/defence-budget-increased-over-rs-20000-crore-crosses-rs-300000-crore-for-first-time-194380">Maldives got Rs 400 crore grant</a> and Rs 175 crore loan from India making New Delhi's contribution to the Indian ocean country at Rs 575 crore. It is five- times increase from the sum India contributed in FY 2017-2018 which was just Rs 109.24 crore.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-full-text-of-finance-minister-piyush-goyals-speech-in-parliament-194373">Budget 2019: Full text of finance minister Piyush Goyal's speech in Parliament</a>

In the case of Maldives, even the revised <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/live-updates-union-budget-2019-194198">estimates for the financial year</a> 2018-2019 saw a massive increase. In last year's&nbsp;Budget, India had announced a contribution of Rs 125 crore, it was revised at Rs 440 crore.

It comes after Maldives President Ibrahim Solih&nbsp;visited India in December of 2018, his first foreign visit to any country after taking charge in November last year.&nbsp;During the visit, India had announced an assistance of $1.4 billion&nbsp;to Male.

Clearly, the change in regime in the Maldives has had an impact. The previous regime under Yameen had junked pro-India policies for a pro-China strategy.

For Afghanistan, a country in which India is building a number of infrastructure projects, the interim Budget gave Rs 325 crore. Last year also it was as much but in the revised estimates released on Friday, it increased to Rs 470 crore.&nbsp;

Bhutan, which is India's close partner and gets substantial budgetary support saw a grant of Rs 2,115 crore and a loan of Rs 500 crore. With Rs 2,615 crore, it is the maximum support India gives to any country. Nepal got Rs 700 crore, Myanmar got Rs 400 crore, Bangladesh got Rs 175 crore &amp; Sri Lanka Rs 150 crore in the interim Budget 2019-2020.&nbsp;

The Budget estimate for Chabahar port, India's key connectivity plan with Afghanistan and central Asia remained unchanged from the previous year at Rs 150 crore.

India also provides support to international and regional organisations. The amount given for SAARC and BIMSTEC Secretariat stands same at Rs 8 crore. Interestingly, BIMSTEC funds saw an increase from Rs 5 crore last year to Rs 8 crore this year. &nbsp;

The 2016 SAARC summit in Islamabad was cancelled after India along with regional countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan boycotted the summit due to Islamabad's support to terrorism. BIMSTEC has seen a new push from New Delhi especially after the summit in Nepal last year.

India funds two universities also - &nbsp;The South Asian University and Nalanda International University -&nbsp; which saw Indian support worth Rs 380 crore and Rs 220 crore in the interim Budget.

For 2019-2020, India announced Rs 265 crore for United Nations, last year it was Rs 258 crore which revised estimates being increased at Rs 307 crore. This is excluding the contribution to its various bodies - like UNESCO and UNCTAD.

India will also give a membership contribution of Rs 0.70 cr to FATF under the interim Budget estimates.&nbsp;

Indian Ocean and Africa

Two Indian ocean countries - Mauritius and Seychelles, who have been getting aid historically from New Delhi, got Rs 700 crore and Rs 75 crore. Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth was on an 8-day long India visit only last week and was the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Varanasi.

India also increased its support to African countries with the Budget announcing Rs 400 crore this year. Last it was Rs 200 crore and before that, it was Rs 175 crore. This is an increase in line with New Delhi's Africa policy which has seen an increase in engagement with the African continent.&nbsp;

India also provides support to Mongolia. This year it has announced Rs 5 crore, which is&nbsp;same as last year.

The interim Budget saw India increase its contribution substantially to the Maldives while bringing support to SAARC and BIMSTEC Secretariat at the same level. According to Budget estimates for 2019-2020, Maldives got Rs 400 crore grant and Rs 175 crore loan from India making New Delhi's contribution to the Indian ocean country at Rs 575 crore.

The interim Budget saw India increase its contribution substantially to the Maldives while bringing support to SAARC and BIMSTEC Secretariat at the same level. According to Budget estimates for 2019-2020, Maldives got Rs 400 crore grant and Rs 175 crore loan from India making New Delhi's contribution to the Indian ocean country at Rs 575 crore. It is five- times increase from the sum India contributed in FY 2017-2018 which was just Rs 109.24 crore. Budget 2019: Full text of finance minister Piyush Goyal's speech in Parliament In the case of Maldives, even the revised estimates for the financial year 2018-2019 saw a massive increase. In last year's Budget, India had announced a contribution of Rs 125 crore, it was revised at Rs 440 crore. It comes after Maldives President Ibrahim Solih visited India in December of 2018, his first foreign visit to any country after taking charge in November last year. During the visit, India had announced an assistance of $1.4 billion to Male. Clearly, the change in regime in the Maldives has had an impact. The previous regime under Yameen had junked pro-India policies for a pro-China strategy. For Afghanistan, a country in which India is building a number of infrastructure projects, the interim Budget gave Rs 325 crore. Last year also it was as much but in the revised estimates released on Friday, it increased to Rs 470 crore. Bhutan, which is India's close partner and gets substantial budgetary support saw a grant of Rs 2,115 crore and a loan of Rs 500 crore. With Rs 2,615 crore, it is the maximum support India gives to any country. Nepal got Rs 700 crore, Myanmar got Rs 400 crore, Bangladesh got Rs 175 crore & Sri Lanka Rs 150 crore in the interim Budget 2019-2020. The Budget estimate for Chabahar port, India's key connectivity plan with Afghanistan and central Asia remained unchanged from the previous year at Rs 150 crore. India also provides support to international and regional organisations. The amount given for SAARC and BIMSTEC Secretariat stands same at Rs 8 crore. Interestingly, BIMSTEC funds saw an increase from Rs 5 crore last year to Rs 8 crore this year. The 2016 SAARC summit in Islamabad was cancelled after India along with regional countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan boycotted the summit due to Islamabad's support to terrorism. BIMSTEC has seen a new push from New Delhi especially after the summit in Nepal last year. India funds two universities also - The South Asian University and Nalanda International University - which saw Indian support worth Rs 380 crore and Rs 220 crore in the interim Budget. For 2019-2020, India announced Rs 265 crore for United Nations, last year it was Rs 258 crore which revised estimates being increased at Rs 307 crore. This is excluding the contribution to its various bodies - like UNESCO and UNCTAD. India will also give a membership contribution of Rs 0.70 cr to FATF under the interim Budget estimates. Indian Ocean and Africa Two Indian ocean countries - Mauritius and Seychelles, who have been getting aid historically from New Delhi, got Rs 700 crore and Rs 75 crore. Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth was on an 8-day long India visit only last week and was the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Varanasi. India also increased its support to African countries with the Budget announcing Rs 400 crore this year. Last it was Rs 200 crore and before that, it was Rs 175 crore. This is an increase in line with New Delhi's Africa policy which has seen an increase in engagement with the African continent. India also provides support to Mongolia. This year it has announced Rs 5 crore, which is same as last year.

Budget 2019: India increases significant contribution to Maldives; BIMSTEC to get similar funds as SAARC

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed was the vice president of Maldives under previous Yameen government and&nbsp;Yameen's running mate in 2013 elections. After his impeachment and a campaign of suppression pursued by Yameen government, he had sought refuge in the United Kingdom. He returned to his country only last year when the political climate improved. He spoke to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on a range of issues including how the Maldives fell into a Chinese debt trap.

WION: How do you see ties between India and Maldives?

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: For the last 5 years, we have seen backslide in the relationship between the 2 countries. We struggled a lot in last 5 years and thanks to people of the Maldives and the international community in particular Indian govt, people of India had a lot of faith in the democratic process of Maldives and today with the help of our coalition partners and parties, we emerged as victorious. I think with new govt in place time for India to seize the opportunity in terms of building more stronger ties between the 2 countries.

WION: How much China was responsible for the crisis?

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: In terms of things we have experienced in terms of our turmoil period during Prez Yameen govt, changes to the constitution were made to allow Chinese company ownership of islands, resorts and land. And we have seen Chinese investments and loans far exceeding the national income. Around 80% of national debt is to Chinese govt. In many ways, one can safely say in a debt trap to China one has seen in Colombo Sri Lanka as well but the more important question is how do we get away from the debt trap. My personal view is it is important for the Maldives to be able to bring in development infrastructure projects like ports, airports, &nbsp;housing projects needed for the country, therefore, it is important we invite more Indian companies. Indian govt should also venture in an infrastructure project. But there is an important question for India, it is of delivery. On one hand, we have China, which seen by many Maldivians, as someone who has accomplished projects. And another hand u have India. Hopefully, India will be able to accomplish and be involved.&nbsp;

WION: So has the Maldives has fallen in a Chinese debt trap?

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: Definitely no doubt on that. As I have indicated earlier, 80% of foreign debt is of China so obviously its a debt trap. And the vital question for a tiny nation like us, in terms of, we are at a location that is a strategic one and for overall security of the Indian ocean. So overall question is what will happen if a country is unable to pay debt and ultimately succumb to the pressure..Chinese pressure. And what will happen to our assets? Again I will call.. we are a small nation but we have to be smart in terms of safeguarding the fragility of our economy, very basic economics. And also scattered resources we have. While we are mindful of the democratic process, we should be vigilant of debt traps. I think, one of the important things is while our people are very smart... they should not give into economic colonization we see across the world, a particularly 3rd world where Chinese are vigorously perusing.

WION: Your suggestion to countries who have fallen in the Chinese debt trap?

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: Well, I think, there has to be a balance drawn. One for countries like us and all around the world, we need investment. Countries are perusing infra projects airports, ports and housings. But also it is important for democratic countries to be vigilant on the impact it may have on the democratic process. While u invite such foreign power, such nations, who are not fond of democratic setup, the countries do need to be careful in terms of awarding projects and signing contracts. The impact it may have. We have complaints of transparency to big companies. So my advice will be to these nations and our people will be that we need Chinese investment but much more interested in protecting democratic setup. Such programs should undergo scrutiny within the legal and judicial system. Legal &amp; parliamentary scrutiny very important.

WION: How do u see security in the Indian ocean?

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: As a very a tiny small nation and next neighbour India we have been fortunate whenever there is a threat to external security India was always there. I can recall 1988 and PM Rajiv Gandhi sent Indian troops. Equally when the national disaster happened like Tsunami. When President Solih came to New Delhi, budgetary support was given. India has always been there for us. We have been conducting joint maritime exercises code-named Dosti for many years. Military exercises also going for many years. India has been providing training to military personnel in the Maldives. We can't underscore our security and safety is more important than any economic incentive. Because economic incentive, economic development can't go alone if u don't have security. Under the leadership of the new government, ties will be strengthened. We have a privileged relationship with India and no one can replace this warm and friendly relationship.

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed was the vice president of Maldives under previous Yameen government and Yameen's running mate in 2013 elections. After his impeachment and a campaign of suppression pursued by Yameen government, he had sought refuge in the United Kingdom.

Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed was the vice president of Maldives under previous Yameen government and Yameen's running mate in 2013 elections. After his impeachment and a campaign of suppression pursued by Yameen government, he had sought refuge in the United Kingdom. He returned to his country only last year when the political climate improved. He spoke to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on a range of issues including how the Maldives fell into a Chinese debt trap. WION: How do you see ties between India and Maldives? Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: For the last 5 years, we have seen backslide in the relationship between the 2 countries. We struggled a lot in last 5 years and thanks to people of the Maldives and the international community in particular Indian govt, people of India had a lot of faith in the democratic process of Maldives and today with the help of our coalition partners and parties, we emerged as victorious. I think with new govt in place time for India to seize the opportunity in terms of building more stronger ties between the 2 countries. WION: How much China was responsible for the crisis? Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: In terms of things we have experienced in terms of our turmoil period during Prez Yameen govt, changes to the constitution were made to allow Chinese company ownership of islands, resorts and land. And we have seen Chinese investments and loans far exceeding the national income. Around 80% of national debt is to Chinese govt. In many ways, one can safely say in a debt trap to China one has seen in Colombo Sri Lanka as well but the more important question is how do we get away from the debt trap. My personal view is it is important for the Maldives to be able to bring in development infrastructure projects like ports, airports, housing projects needed for the country, therefore, it is important we invite more Indian companies. Indian govt should also venture in an infrastructure project. But there is an important question for India, it is of delivery. On one hand, we have China, which seen by many Maldivians, as someone who has accomplished projects. And another hand u have India. Hopefully, India will be able to accomplish and be involved. WION: So has the Maldives has fallen in a Chinese debt trap? Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: Definitely no doubt on that. As I have indicated earlier, 80% of foreign debt is of China so obviously its a debt trap. And the vital question for a tiny nation like us, in terms of, we are at a location that is a strategic one and for overall security of the Indian ocean. So overall question is what will happen if a country is unable to pay debt and ultimately succumb to the pressure..Chinese pressure. And what will happen to our assets? Again I will call.. we are a small nation but we have to be smart in terms of safeguarding the fragility of our economy, very basic economics. And also scattered resources we have. While we are mindful of the democratic process, we should be vigilant of debt traps. I think, one of the important things is while our people are very smart... they should not give into economic colonization we see across the world, a particularly 3rd world where Chinese are vigorously perusing. WION: Your suggestion to countries who have fallen in the Chinese debt trap? Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: Well, I think, there has to be a balance drawn. One for countries like us and all around the world, we need investment. Countries are perusing infra projects airports, ports and housings. But also it is important for democratic countries to be vigilant on the impact it may have on the democratic process. While u invite such foreign power, such nations, who are not fond of democratic setup, the countries do need to be careful in terms of awarding projects and signing contracts. The impact it may have. We have complaints of transparency to big companies. So my advice will be to these nations and our people will be that we need Chinese investment but much more interested in protecting democratic setup. Such programs should undergo scrutiny within the legal and judicial system. Legal & parliamentary scrutiny very important. WION: How do u see security in the Indian ocean? Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed: As a very a tiny small nation and next neighbour India we have been fortunate whenever there is a threat to external security India was always there. I can recall 1988 and PM Rajiv Gandhi sent Indian troops. Equally when the national disaster happened like Tsunami. When President Solih came to New Delhi, budgetary support was given. India has always been there for us. We have been conducting joint maritime exercises code-named Dosti for many years. Military exercises also going for many years. India has been providing training to military personnel in the Maldives. We can't underscore our security and safety is more important than any economic incentive. Because economic incentive, economic development can't go alone if u don't have security. Under the leadership of the new government, ties will be strengthened. We have a privileged relationship with India and no one can replace this warm and friendly relationship.

Countries should not give into economic colonisation: Maldives ex-VP

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018.

Speaking exclusively to WION from Male she said, "It is my first trip to India as the Maldivian Minister for Defence and I look forward to fruitful discussions with my Indian counterpart Hon Nirmala Sitharaman. As someone who believes in gender equality, I am excited. I understand this is the first time in the history of the region that there is going to be a meeting between two female defence ministers.”

On security cooperation, she said, “From time immemorial we have traditionally enjoyed close ties with India. I believe it is in our respective self-interest to continue to do so. Our security co-operation helps to keep us safe and combats a variety of problems from fish poaching to piracy and smuggling."

Her visit comes a month after Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited India, making her trip the third&nbsp;high-level visit from the new Maldivian government.

During President Solih's India visit in December, India had announced financial assistance up to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-president-solihs-visit-maldives-resets-india-first-policy-india-reciprocates-with-14-bn-aid-package-184877">$1.4 billion to the island nation</a>.

Relations under former president Abdulla Yameen's administration and New Delhi had suffered, especially since Yameen junked 'Ïndia First'&nbsp;policy for a pro-Beijing policy. Yameen even wanted New Delhi to take back 2 helicopters it had gifted. Speaking to WION, immediately after taking charge, Mariya had said the helicopters will not be given back and "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give."

PM Modi had visited the&nbsp;Maldives in November 2018 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. During the bilateral meeting, both the leaders agreed on the "importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean" and "being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region."

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018.

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018. Speaking exclusively to WION from Male she said, "It is my first trip to India as the Maldivian Minister for Defence and I look forward to fruitful discussions with my Indian counterpart Hon Nirmala Sitharaman. As someone who believes in gender equality, I am excited. I understand this is the first time in the history of the region that there is going to be a meeting between two female defence ministers.” On security cooperation, she said, “From time immemorial we have traditionally enjoyed close ties with India. I believe it is in our respective self-interest to continue to do so. Our security co-operation helps to keep us safe and combats a variety of problems from fish poaching to piracy and smuggling." Her visit comes a month after Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited India, making her trip the third high-level visit from the new Maldivian government. During President Solih's India visit in December, India had announced financial assistance up to $1.4 billion to the island nation. Relations under former president Abdulla Yameen's administration and New Delhi had suffered, especially since Yameen junked 'Ïndia First' policy for a pro-Beijing policy. Yameen even wanted New Delhi to take back 2 helicopters it had gifted. Speaking to WION, immediately after taking charge, Mariya had said the helicopters will not be given back and "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give." PM Modi had visited the Maldives in November 2018 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. During the bilateral meeting, both the leaders agreed on the "importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean" and "being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region."

India-Maldives security cooperation keeps us safe: Maldivian defence minister to WION

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-president-solihs-visit-maldives-resets-india-first-policy-india-reciprocates-with-14-bn-aid-package-184877">The president of the Maldives </a>has appealed to citizens to furnish details of graft during the term of his pro-China predecessor and earlier, as the Indian Ocean island investigates deals worth billions of dollars given to Chinese firms.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-new-president-solih-warns-state-coffers-looted-after-china-led-boom-177940">Since Ibrahim Mohamed Solih </a>beat Abdulla Yameen in a surprise election result last year his administration has been trying to determine the extent of Chinese loans used to fund a construction boom in the Maldives.

In a statement late on Tuesday, Solih's office asked the public to submit written complaints about "cases of corruption and abuse of power within state institutions", over a period of nearly six years from January 1, 2012.

Critics have said contracts were given to Chinese companies at inflated prices, for example, one relating to a bridge linking the capital Male to the main airport of the palm-fringed islands famous for their luxury diving resorts.

Yameen has denied any wrongdoing, saying he took on loans to accelerate economic development. The investigation also covers the final two years of the term of his predecessor, Mohammed Waheed, when the government took a $500-million Chinese loan for infrastructure and housing.

"Corruption was institutionalised under Yameen`s tenure," Hamid Abdul Gaffoor, a spokesman for Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party, told Reuters. "Some state institutions were totally looted."&nbsp;

China has been building ports, highways and power stations as part of its giant Belt and Road Initiative to boost trade and transport links across Asia and beyond.&nbsp;

But some of its projects are being criticised for high costs, lack of transparency and expensive loans, stoking fears the arrangement could push small countries, such as the Maldives and Sri Lanka, into a debt trap.&nbsp;

Since Ibrahim Mohamed Solih beat Abdulla Yameen in a surprise election result last year his administration has been trying to determine the extent of Chinese loans used to fund a construction boom in the Maldives.

The president of the Maldives has appealed to citizens to furnish details of graft during the term of his pro-China predecessor and earlier, as the Indian Ocean island investigates deals worth billions of dollars given to Chinese firms. Since Ibrahim Mohamed Solih beat Abdulla Yameen in a surprise election result last year his administration has been trying to determine the extent of Chinese loans used to fund a construction boom in the Maldives. In a statement late on Tuesday, Solih's office asked the public to submit written complaints about "cases of corruption and abuse of power within state institutions", over a period of nearly six years from January 1, 2012. Critics have said contracts were given to Chinese companies at inflated prices, for example, one relating to a bridge linking the capital Male to the main airport of the palm-fringed islands famous for their luxury diving resorts. Yameen has denied any wrongdoing, saying he took on loans to accelerate economic development. The investigation also covers the final two years of the term of his predecessor, Mohammed Waheed, when the government took a $500-million Chinese loan for infrastructure and housing. "Corruption was institutionalised under Yameen`s tenure," Hamid Abdul Gaffoor, a spokesman for Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party, told Reuters. "Some state institutions were totally looted." China has been building ports, highways and power stations as part of its giant Belt and Road Initiative to boost trade and transport links across Asia and beyond. But some of its projects are being criticised for high costs, lack of transparency and expensive loans, stoking fears the arrangement could push small countries, such as the Maldives and Sri Lanka, into a debt trap.

Maldives President Solih appeals to citizens for graft details under Yameen

The island nation Maldives plunged into chaos after former president Abdulla Yameen declared an emergency earlier this year.

On February 5, Yameen imposed a 15-day-long emergency after a Supreme Court ruling quashed convictions against nine opposition leaders.

During the restrictions, Yameen’s administration arrested former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the chief justice, another Supreme Court judge and a Supreme Court administrator on charges of trying to overthrow the government, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The Supreme court went on to reverse its decision to quash the convictions of the opposition leaders.

The state of emergency in the island nation went on for over a month, precisely for 45 days, until Yameen finally lifted the restriction on March 22.&nbsp;

Rights group Amnesty International had said the Maldivian government was using the emergency “as a licence for repression, targeting members of civil society, judges and political opponents”.

Since then, Yameen’s ruling coalition enacted laws without a required quorum in parliament, approved by the Supreme Court after its chief justice was arrested in February for alleged corruption under emergency regulations.

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in August called for greater democracy and the restoration of an independent judiciary in the Maldives.

A report by a European think tank, described the political situation in the Maldives under Yameen as "worse than had been previously understood and continues to deteriorate."

A number of electoral laws were amended by the government, with only 34 out of the 85 Members of Parliament voting for the passing of the amendments, making it unconstitutional, the report added.

In June, the Maldivian Opposition parties agreed to field a joint candidate for the presidential elections that were held in September.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mohamed-nasheed-maldives-fighter-politician-and-champion-of-earth-184556">Former president Mohamed Nasheed</a>, who was in exile, announced that he won't contest the presidential polls. Nasheed's Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was named as the common candidate for the general elections.&nbsp;

After polls were conducted on September 23, results released by the electoral commission showed Yameen on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind MDP's Solih on 58.3 per cent -- the only other name on ballot papers.&nbsp;

Yameen called for nationwide protests over alleged vote rigging but later conceded defeated.&nbsp;

“Maldivian people have decided what they want. I have accepted the results. I met with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who the Maldivian electorate has chosen to be their next president. I have congratulated him,” Yameen said in a televised press conference.

"I did everything I had to do on behalf of the majority of Maldivians or in the interests of the nation. So, even today, I won't say I regret it," Yameen added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-president-ibrahim-solih-a-reformer-who-must-hold-together-a-diverse-coalition-184835">Ibrahim Mohamed Solih</a>, in November, was sworn in as the new Maldivian president.&nbsp;

Veteran lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win this year's presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but he must now keep together a coalition that includes two fierce rivals, Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed, both former presidents.

The island nation Maldives plunged into chaos after former president Abdulla Yameen declared an emergency earlier this year. On February 5, Yameen imposed a 15-day-long emergency after a Supreme Court ruling quashed convictions against nine opposition leaders.

The island nation Maldives plunged into chaos after former president Abdulla Yameen declared an emergency earlier this year. On February 5, Yameen imposed a 15-day-long emergency after a Supreme Court ruling quashed convictions against nine opposition leaders. During the restrictions, Yameen’s administration arrested former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the chief justice, another Supreme Court judge and a Supreme Court administrator on charges of trying to overthrow the government, news agency Reuters reported. The Supreme court went on to reverse its decision to quash the convictions of the opposition leaders. The state of emergency in the island nation went on for over a month, precisely for 45 days, until Yameen finally lifted the restriction on March 22. Rights group Amnesty International had said the Maldivian government was using the emergency “as a licence for repression, targeting members of civil society, judges and political opponents”. Since then, Yameen’s ruling coalition enacted laws without a required quorum in parliament, approved by the Supreme Court after its chief justice was arrested in February for alleged corruption under emergency regulations. Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in August called for greater democracy and the restoration of an independent judiciary in the Maldives. A report by a European think tank, described the political situation in the Maldives under Yameen as "worse than had been previously understood and continues to deteriorate." A number of electoral laws were amended by the government, with only 34 out of the 85 Members of Parliament voting for the passing of the amendments, making it unconstitutional, the report added. In June, the Maldivian Opposition parties agreed to field a joint candidate for the presidential elections that were held in September. Former president Mohamed Nasheed, who was in exile, announced that he won't contest the presidential polls. Nasheed's Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was named as the common candidate for the general elections. After polls were conducted on September 23, results released by the electoral commission showed Yameen on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind MDP's Solih on 58.3 per cent -- the only other name on ballot papers. Yameen called for nationwide protests over alleged vote rigging but later conceded defeated. “Maldivian people have decided what they want. I have accepted the results. I met with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who the Maldivian electorate has chosen to be their next president. I have congratulated him,” Yameen said in a televised press conference. "I did everything I had to do on behalf of the majority of Maldivians or in the interests of the nation. So, even today, I won't say I regret it," Yameen added. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, in November, was sworn in as the new Maldivian president. Veteran lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win this year's presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but he must now keep together a coalition that includes two fierce rivals, Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed, both former presidents.

Maldivian political chaos: 45 days of emergency that shook the island nation 

For a country still reeling from the aftermath of the recent assembly election results, this may be easy to miss: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-president-solihs-visit-maldives-resets-india-first-policy-india-reciprocates-with-14-bn-aid-package-184877">an election India won outside its borders</a>. &nbsp;

While Indian political leaders were busy criss-crossing states for poll yatras, the prime minister was attending a swearing-in ceremony outside the country — the only one he'd not visited in the neighbourhood in the four years he'd been in office. (And that's saying a lot for a man accused of spending more time globe-trotting than governing.) In November, in the thick of election season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed Ibrahim Mohammed Solih take oath as the president of the Maldives. In diplomatic terms — India had beaten China in an election in Male. Not many expected this win, but most welcomed it.&nbsp;

It was hardly surprising then that President Solih's first foreign visit was to India. Today, in a string of meetings, India and the Maldives have pressed the reset button to revive a relationship that was being ruined by Chinese money. India has promised more than a billion dollars in aid. Bilateral pacts have been signed. But this visit is as significant in bilateral terms, as for its larger geopolitical impact. &nbsp;

All business, including business of the political kind, is driven by money. Asia needs a lot of it, $26 trillion dollars according to one estimate. That's how much this region needs for investment in highways, railways and other infrastructure projects. The big moneybags is Beijing. It splurges in the garb of being a benign harbinger of development. It extracts market access and strategic influence in return. It's what we call China's debt diplomacy.&nbsp;

But history is no mean player in geopolitics. India has been an unofficial security guarantor to smaller neighbours in the Indian ocean. Island states like Mauritius, the Maldives and Seychelles depend on New Delhi for military training and equipment. India has the access China desires. These countries sit on key sea routes. Hence the tug of war between New Delhi and Beijing.&nbsp;

As China launched a charm offensive with its Belt and Road Initiative, most of India's neighbours were awed by its cash. They began slipping into China's orbit. India worried about this "policy of encirclement" but it did not have money to match China's. It used diplomatic dexterity. China's aggression played in India's favour too. Country after country began seeing through the plot. Chinese influence became a domestic political issue. From Malaysia to Sri Lanka to the Maldives, the political players changed on the promise of containing China. &nbsp;

For India, it's an opportunity worth converting. But Delhi's record on delivery is hardly inspiring. Plus, many of these countries with their crushing burden of debt are too far gone in China's fold to fully exit. For the Maldives alone, its debt to China is equivalent to 20 per cent &nbsp;of its GDP. There is an unspecified number of islands leased to China for building tourist resorts. There's a free trade agreement that has helped spike Chinese imports to 18 per cent. There's no clarity on how much money the government owes to Beijing. &nbsp;

This is a test for President Solih. This is also a test for India. It must deliver on promises. Prime Minister Modi's diplomacy will have to be followed up with deft action. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

For a country still reeling from the aftermath of the recent assembly election results, this may be easy to miss: an election India won outside its borders. While Indian political leaders were busy criss-crossing states for poll yatras, the prime minister was attending a swearing-in ceremony outside the country — the only one he'd not visited in the neighbourhood in the four years he'd been in office.

For a country still reeling from the aftermath of the recent assembly election results, this may be easy to miss: an election India won outside its borders. While Indian political leaders were busy criss-crossing states for poll yatras, the prime minister was attending a swearing-in ceremony outside the country — the only one he'd not visited in the neighbourhood in the four years he'd been in office. (And that's saying a lot for a man accused of spending more time globe-trotting than governing.) In November, in the thick of election season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed Ibrahim Mohammed Solih take oath as the president of the Maldives. In diplomatic terms — India had beaten China in an election in Male. Not many expected this win, but most welcomed it. It was hardly surprising then that President Solih's first foreign visit was to India. Today, in a string of meetings, India and the Maldives have pressed the reset button to revive a relationship that was being ruined by Chinese money. India has promised more than a billion dollars in aid. Bilateral pacts have been signed. But this visit is as significant in bilateral terms, as for its larger geopolitical impact. All business, including business of the political kind, is driven by money. Asia needs a lot of it, $26 trillion dollars according to one estimate. That's how much this region needs for investment in highways, railways and other infrastructure projects. The big moneybags is Beijing. It splurges in the garb of being a benign harbinger of development. It extracts market access and strategic influence in return. It's what we call China's debt diplomacy. But history is no mean player in geopolitics. India has been an unofficial security guarantor to smaller neighbours in the Indian ocean. Island states like Mauritius, the Maldives and Seychelles depend on New Delhi for military training and equipment. India has the access China desires. These countries sit on key sea routes. Hence the tug of war between New Delhi and Beijing. As China launched a charm offensive with its Belt and Road Initiative, most of India's neighbours were awed by its cash. They began slipping into China's orbit. India worried about this "policy of encirclement" but it did not have money to match China's. It used diplomatic dexterity. China's aggression played in India's favour too. Country after country began seeing through the plot. Chinese influence became a domestic political issue. From Malaysia to Sri Lanka to the Maldives, the political players changed on the promise of containing China. For India, it's an opportunity worth converting. But Delhi's record on delivery is hardly inspiring. Plus, many of these countries with their crushing burden of debt are too far gone in China's fold to fully exit. For the Maldives alone, its debt to China is equivalent to 20 per cent of its GDP. There is an unspecified number of islands leased to China for building tourist resorts. There's a free trade agreement that has helped spike Chinese imports to 18 per cent. There's no clarity on how much money the government owes to Beijing. This is a test for President Solih. This is also a test for India. It must deliver on promises. Prime Minister Modi's diplomacy will have to be followed up with deft action.

Maldives: The election win India should not forget

WION Your Story: Want to strengthen trade ties with Maldives, says PM Modi

WION Dispatch: Maldives gets 1.4 billion dollar assistance from India

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795">Kamal Nath sworn in as Madhya Pradesh CM, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795">first</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795"> act is to sign off on farm loan waiver</a>

Congress leader Kamal Nath who has held several portfolios in the Union cabinet&nbsp;was sworn in as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-solih-pm-modi-pledge-to-renew-ties-in-joint-statement-184786">India offers </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-solih-pm-modi-pledge-to-renew-ties-in-joint-statement-184786">Maldives</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-solih-pm-modi-pledge-to-renew-ties-in-joint-statement-184786"> $1.4 billion in aid</a>

India has offered $1.4 billion in aid to the Maldives. "Our country recognises the long-standing generosity of Indian people," Maldives foreign minister Abdullah Shahid told WION.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhupesh-baghel-sworn-in-as-chhattisgarh-cm-184861">Bhupesh Baghel sworn in as Chhattisgarh CM</a>

Bhupesh Baghel has served as Congress party chief for Chattisgarh and is also an MLA from Patan, he is credited for bringing the party back to power after 15 years in oblivion.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-anti-sikh-riots-congress-leader-sajjan-kumar-sentenced-to-life-imprisonment-to-surrender-by-december-31-184695">1984 anti-Sikh riots: Congress leader Sajjan Kumar sentenced to life imprisonment</a>

Sajjan Kumar has been sentenced to life imprisonment. He has to surrender by December 31, 2018.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-for-brexit-four-main-scenarios-184840">What next for Brexit? Four main scenarios</a>

Here are the four main scenarios facing Britain while the clock ticks down to March 29, 2019, the day it is scheduled to depart the European project after 46 years.

&nbsp;

Kamal Nath sworn in as Madhya Pradesh CM, first act is to sign off on farm loan waiver Congress leader Kamal Nath who has held several portfolios in the Union cabinet was sworn in as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on Monday.

Kamal Nath sworn in as Madhya Pradesh CM, first act is to sign off on farm loan waiver Congress leader Kamal Nath who has held several portfolios in the Union cabinet was sworn in as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on Monday. India offers Maldives $1.4 billion in aid India has offered $1.4 billion in aid to the Maldives. "Our country recognises the long-standing generosity of Indian people," Maldives foreign minister Abdullah Shahid told WION. Bhupesh Baghel sworn in as Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel has served as Congress party chief for Chattisgarh and is also an MLA from Patan, he is credited for bringing the party back to power after 15 years in oblivion. 1984 anti-Sikh riots: Congress leader Sajjan Kumar sentenced to life imprisonment Sajjan Kumar has been sentenced to life imprisonment. He has to surrender by December 31, 2018. What next for Brexit? Four main scenarios Here are the four main scenarios facing Britain while the clock ticks down to March 29, 2019, the day it is scheduled to depart the European project after 46 years.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Maldives President Ibrahim <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-maldivian-president-solih-arrives-in-india-on-sunday-visa-pact-on-the-cards-184252">Mohamed Solih and PM Modi issued</a>&nbsp;a joint statement&nbsp;in New Delhi today as the two leaders sought to strengthen ties between the two countries.

During the joint address, PM Modi said a new chapter had begun in India-Maldives relationship. "We wish success to people of Maldives, we want to strengthen trade ties with Maldives," the Indian prime minister said.

India and Maldives held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

India has offered $1.4 billion in aid to the Maldives. "Our country recognises the long-standing generosity of Indian people," Maldives foreign minister Abdullah Shahid told WION.

During his address, the Maldives president thanked India for the warm hospitality as the two countries prepared to sign agreements to enhance people-to-people contracts.

President Solih had arrived in the Indian capital on Sunday in his first foreign visit. The Maldives president received the guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhawan today and met President Kovind.

During his three-day visit, the Maldives president will be meeting Indian business leaders and sign trade agreements with India to bolster ties which had received a setback during President Yameen's regime.

President Solih's visit to India comes after PM Modi visited the Maldives to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony. Solih had assumed charge as head of state of the Maldives on November 17th.

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and PM Modi issued a joint statement in New Delhi today as the two leaders sought to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and PM Modi issued a joint statement in New Delhi today as the two leaders sought to strengthen ties between the two countries. During the joint address, PM Modi said a new chapter had begun in India-Maldives relationship. "We wish success to people of Maldives, we want to strengthen trade ties with Maldives," the Indian prime minister said. India and Maldives held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. India has offered $1.4 billion in aid to the Maldives. "Our country recognises the long-standing generosity of Indian people," Maldives foreign minister Abdullah Shahid told WION. During his address, the Maldives president thanked India for the warm hospitality as the two countries prepared to sign agreements to enhance people-to-people contracts. President Solih had arrived in the Indian capital on Sunday in his first foreign visit. The Maldives president received the guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhawan today and met President Kovind. During his three-day visit, the Maldives president will be meeting Indian business leaders and sign trade agreements with India to bolster ties which had received a setback during President Yameen's regime. President Solih's visit to India comes after PM Modi visited the Maldives to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony. Solih had assumed charge as head of state of the Maldives on November 17th.

India offers Maldives $1.4 billion in aid

Maldives gets 1.4 billion dollar assistance from India

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win this year's presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but now faces the task of holding together a disparate coalition.

The Maldives, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 325 miles (523 kilometres) southwest of the southern tip of India, is best known as a luxury holiday destination.

But the Muslim nation of fewer than half a million has suffered a turbulent transition to democracy since the end of three decades of authoritarian rule in 2008.

The victory of Solih, who is known as a reformer, dislodged Yameen, a hardliner who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, and cracked down on threats to his rule, even jailing his own half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

But Solih must now keep together a coalition that includes two fierce rivals, Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed, both former presidents.

Born in 1964 in Hinnavaru, Lhaviyani Atoll, Solih is popularly known as "Ibu".&nbsp;

Solih has been in the opposition since he first entered parliament, known as the People's Majlis, in 1994, except for a two-year spell under Nasheed, before the latter was ousted amid a police mutiny.

A close confidant of the former president and married to one of his cousins, Solih played a leading role in forming the Maldives Political Reform Movement from 2003 until 2008, which culminated in the adoption of a new constitution.

He was also part of the special parliament set up under Gayoom, who ruled the tropical islands for three decades until 2008, to write a new modern constitution for a multi-party democracy. He has led the opposition in parliament since 2011.

He led the MDP during protests in March 2015 after Nasheed's arrest for alleged terror offences, charges the opposition called politically motivated.

Friends say Solih has a calm temperament and is likely to champion democracy and freedom of expression.

He has already said he will seek to free all political prisoners, including Gayoom. He also wants to rework or scrap deals not made in the best interests of the Maldives, as well as restore ties with India, which could, in turn, strain relations with Beijing.

Soon after he took over last month, Solih said state coffers had been looted over the past few years and warned that the country was in financial difficulty after racking up debt with Chinese lenders.

Solih, on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-solih-pm-modi-pledge-to-renew-ties-in-joint-statement-184786">his recent trip to India</a>, said the Maldives and India had signed agreements to cooperate on trade, health and defence. India would help improve Maldives' security through joint patrols as well as aerial surveillance, officials said.

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win this year's presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but now faces the task of holding together a disparate coalition.

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win this year's presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but now faces the task of holding together a disparate coalition. The Maldives, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 325 miles (523 kilometres) southwest of the southern tip of India, is best known as a luxury holiday destination. But the Muslim nation of fewer than half a million has suffered a turbulent transition to democracy since the end of three decades of authoritarian rule in 2008. The victory of Solih, who is known as a reformer, dislodged Yameen, a hardliner who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, and cracked down on threats to his rule, even jailing his own half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. But Solih must now keep together a coalition that includes two fierce rivals, Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed, both former presidents. Born in 1964 in Hinnavaru, Lhaviyani Atoll, Solih is popularly known as "Ibu". Solih has been in the opposition since he first entered parliament, known as the People's Majlis, in 1994, except for a two-year spell under Nasheed, before the latter was ousted amid a police mutiny. A close confidant of the former president and married to one of his cousins, Solih played a leading role in forming the Maldives Political Reform Movement from 2003 until 2008, which culminated in the adoption of a new constitution. He was also part of the special parliament set up under Gayoom, who ruled the tropical islands for three decades until 2008, to write a new modern constitution for a multi-party democracy. He has led the opposition in parliament since 2011. He led the MDP during protests in March 2015 after Nasheed's arrest for alleged terror offences, charges the opposition called politically motivated. Friends say Solih has a calm temperament and is likely to champion democracy and freedom of expression. He has already said he will seek to free all political prisoners, including Gayoom. He also wants to rework or scrap deals not made in the best interests of the Maldives, as well as restore ties with India, which could, in turn, strain relations with Beijing. Soon after he took over last month, Solih said state coffers had been looted over the past few years and warned that the country was in financial difficulty after racking up debt with Chinese lenders. Solih, on his recent trip to India, said the Maldives and India had signed agreements to cooperate on trade, health and defence. India would help improve Maldives' security through joint patrols as well as aerial surveillance, officials said.

Maldives President Ibrahim Solih: Reformer who must hold together a diverse coalition

Former Maldivian President, also the first to be elected democratically, Mohamed Nasheed's returned to the country last month after the Maldivian top court overturned a terrorism conviction against him. Nasheed returned to the island nation after being in exile for nearly two years.&nbsp;

Nasheed can aptly be called quite significant to the political fabric of the Maldives. The 2003 Maldives civil unrest was a product of the public rage that erupted after an investigation, that Nasheed has pressed for, revealed that a 19-year-old prisoner was tortured to death in Maafushi jail.&nbsp;

Nasheed's political journey has been a tough one, marred by many controversies that had him spend a considerable amount of his life in prison. Nasheed's critical views on former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's regime landed him in jail multiple times, reports suggest he was jailed over twenty times under Gayoom's rule.&nbsp;

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I have been charged and imprisoned over 14 times, mostly for writing dissenting journalism. Congratulations to President Gayoom for receiving the honour marking the Diamond Jubilee of Maldives Journalism.
— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedNasheed/status/1072808625528164353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Born on 17 May 1967 in Malé, Maldives, Nasheed earned his education in the Maldives and in Sri Lanka before leaving for the United Kingdom where he studied maritime studies.

He was elected to the Maldivian parliament in the year 2000. Nasheed went into an exile to the United Kingdom in 2003 and formed the Maldivian Democratic Party. The British government recognised him as a political refugee. He returned to the country after over a year but was arrested again while holding a demonstration with MDP supporters in 2005.

Former Amnesty prisoner of conscience, Nasheed has been identified as a pro-democracy leader who feels deeply for environmental concerns. In 2008, he managed to overthrow the nearly three-decade-long rule of former president Gayoom in nation's first democratic polls.&nbsp;

During his presidency, Nasheed vowed to turn the Maldives carbon-neutral in the coming decade and held the world's first-ever underwater cabinet meeting. The United Nations awarded him its most prestigious &nbsp;environmental award, 'Champion of the Earth.'

But Nasheed's effort of achieving democratic stability at home was shortlived as Opposition-led protests began taking shape. His own cabinet resigned in 2010, Nasheed claimed that the Opposition was making it impossible to govern.&nbsp;

In 2012, anti-government protests gripped the island nation after Nasheed ordered the arrest of Criminal Court Judge Abdulla Mohamed. After ongoing protests and constitutional crisis, Nasheed, in a nationwide broadcast, announced his resignation.&nbsp;

In March 2015, Nasheed was convicted on a terrorism charge and sentenced to 13 years at Maafushi jail over Abdulla Mohamed's arrest. Amnesty International called the conviction as "politically motivated." Nasheed took political asylum in the United Kingdom in 2016.&nbsp;

In 2017, Nasheed vowed to return to the Maldives and contest presidential polls against President Abdulla Yameen whose refusal to comply with the court’s order to release political prisoners drew international criticism.

Nasheed was barred from contesting the September 23 poll. The elections were won by his party's nominee Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who crushed Yameen's five-year rule.

In November, the Maldives top court overturned the terrorism conviction against Nasheed stating that the former president was wrongfully charged and should not have been convicted in the 2015 trial.

"President Nasheed's entire trial was a politically-motivated sham," his lawyer, Hisaan Hussein, said after his conviction was quashed.

"It is appalling that an innocent man was unjustly forced to spend a year in jail, 35 months in exile, and was prevented from standing for political office."

Nasheed's appeal against his 13-year jail sentence had languished before the courts for years and came through only recently when the case reopened after Yameen's defeat. &nbsp;

Shortly after returning to his motherland, Nasheed seemed to have resumed his effort as an environmental campaigner. &nbsp;

The newly-elected Maldivian president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, invited Nasheed to head the country's negotiating delegation at the Katowice talks in Poland. The talks are aimed at agreeing on rules for implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.

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We must cease the dinosaur language of climate change, begging the greatest polluters to cut carbon emissions on ethical grounds. We must demand robust investment in clean &amp; renewable energy to end investment in and consumption of fossil fuels. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP24?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP24</a>
— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedNasheed/status/1073114556845547521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-tells-un-climate-talks-we-are-not-prepared-to-die-183833">In Poland, Nasheed stated</a> that everything in power will be done to combat the climate crisis. He also said that not much progress has been made "almost 10 years since" he was last at these climate negotiations.&nbsp;

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I welcome outcome of COP24. The world has agreed that all nations must commit to new emissions targets by 2020. Maldives will play its part and submit its new target next year, in line with 1.5 degrees and GoM’s intention to rapidly shift to solar power. <a href="https://t.co/ttafMDDJq4">https://t.co/ttafMDDJq4</a>
— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedNasheed/status/1074253474014027776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"But almost 10 years since I was last at these climate negotiations, I must say, nothing much seems to have changed. We are still using the same old, dinosaur language," he said.

Former Maldivian President, also the first to be elected democratically, Mohamed Nasheed's returned to the country last month after the Maldivian top court overturned a terrorism conviction against him.

Former Maldivian President, also the first to be elected democratically, Mohamed Nasheed's returned to the country last month after the Maldivian top court overturned a terrorism conviction against him. Nasheed returned to the island nation after being in exile for nearly two years. Nasheed can aptly be called quite significant to the political fabric of the Maldives. The 2003 Maldives civil unrest was a product of the public rage that erupted after an investigation, that Nasheed has pressed for, revealed that a 19-year-old prisoner was tortured to death in Maafushi jail. Nasheed's political journey has been a tough one, marred by many controversies that had him spend a considerable amount of his life in prison. Nasheed's critical views on former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's regime landed him in jail multiple times, reports suggest he was jailed over twenty times under Gayoom's rule. I have been charged and imprisoned over 14 times, mostly for writing dissenting journalism. Congratulations to President Gayoom for receiving the honour marking the Diamond Jubilee of Maldives Journalism. — Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) December 12, 2018 × Born on 17 May 1967 in Malé, Maldives, Nasheed earned his education in the Maldives and in Sri Lanka before leaving for the United Kingdom where he studied maritime studies. He was elected to the Maldivian parliament in the year 2000. Nasheed went into an exile to the United Kingdom in 2003 and formed the Maldivian Democratic Party. The British government recognised him as a political refugee. He returned to the country after over a year but was arrested again while holding a demonstration with MDP supporters in 2005. Former Amnesty prisoner of conscience, Nasheed has been identified as a pro-democracy leader who feels deeply for environmental concerns. In 2008, he managed to overthrow the nearly three-decade-long rule of former president Gayoom in nation's first democratic polls. During his presidency, Nasheed vowed to turn the Maldives carbon-neutral in the coming decade and held the world's first-ever underwater cabinet meeting. The United Nations awarded him its most prestigious environmental award, 'Champion of the Earth.' But Nasheed's effort of achieving democratic stability at home was shortlived as Opposition-led protests began taking shape. His own cabinet resigned in 2010, Nasheed claimed that the Opposition was making it impossible to govern. In 2012, anti-government protests gripped the island nation after Nasheed ordered the arrest of Criminal Court Judge Abdulla Mohamed. After ongoing protests and constitutional crisis, Nasheed, in a nationwide broadcast, announced his resignation. In March 2015, Nasheed was convicted on a terrorism charge and sentenced to 13 years at Maafushi jail over Abdulla Mohamed's arrest. Amnesty International called the conviction as "politically motivated." Nasheed took political asylum in the United Kingdom in 2016. In 2017, Nasheed vowed to return to the Maldives and contest presidential polls against President Abdulla Yameen whose refusal to comply with the court’s order to release political prisoners drew international criticism. Nasheed was barred from contesting the September 23 poll. The elections were won by his party's nominee Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who crushed Yameen's five-year rule. In November, the Maldives top court overturned the terrorism conviction against Nasheed stating that the former president was wrongfully charged and should not have been convicted in the 2015 trial. "President Nasheed's entire trial was a politically-motivated sham," his lawyer, Hisaan Hussein, said after his conviction was quashed. "It is appalling that an innocent man was unjustly forced to spend a year in jail, 35 months in exile, and was prevented from standing for political office." Nasheed's appeal against his 13-year jail sentence had languished before the courts for years and came through only recently when the case reopened after Yameen's defeat. Shortly after returning to his motherland, Nasheed seemed to have resumed his effort as an environmental campaigner. The newly-elected Maldivian president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, invited Nasheed to head the country's negotiating delegation at the Katowice talks in Poland. The talks are aimed at agreeing on rules for implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. We must cease the dinosaur language of climate change, begging the greatest polluters to cut carbon emissions on ethical grounds. We must demand robust investment in clean & renewable energy to end investment in and consumption of fossil fuels. #COP24 — Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) December 13, 2018 × In Poland, Nasheed stated that everything in power will be done to combat the climate crisis. He also said that not much progress has been made "almost 10 years since" he was last at these climate negotiations. I welcome outcome of COP24. The world has agreed that all nations must commit to new emissions targets by 2020. Maldives will play its part and submit its new target next year, in line with 1.5 degrees and GoM’s intention to rapidly shift to solar power. https://t.co/ttafMDDJq4 — Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) December 16, 2018 × "But almost 10 years since I was last at these climate negotiations, I must say, nothing much seems to have changed. We are still using the same old, dinosaur language," he said.

Mohamed Nasheed: Maldives' fighter-politician and 'Champion of Earth'

Police in the Maldives have frozen the bank accounts of former president Abdulla Yameen, a statement said on Saturday.

The Maldives police said a total of 100 million Maldivian Rufiyaa ($6.58 million) in both US&nbsp;dollars and the local currency have been frozen as a part of investigations into deals Yameen made during his tenure, many of them involving Chinese infrastructure projects.

Yameen has denied any wrongdoing and said that he took on loans to accelerate economic development.

Police in the Maldives have frozen the bank accounts of former president Abdulla Yameen, a statement said on Saturday. The Maldives police said a total of 100 million Maldivian Rufiyaa ($6.

Police in the Maldives have frozen the bank accounts of former president Abdulla Yameen, a statement said on Saturday. The Maldives police said a total of 100 million Maldivian Rufiyaa ($6.58 million) in both US dollars and the local currency have been frozen as a part of investigations into deals Yameen made during his tenure, many of them involving Chinese infrastructure projects. Yameen has denied any wrongdoing and said that he took on loans to accelerate economic development.

Maldives police freeze bank accounts of former president Yameen

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-judgement-govt-moves-sc-seeking-correction-in-para-which-makes-reference-to-cag-report-pac-184280">Govt files affidavit in SC seeking 'correction' in para which makes reference to CAG report, PAC in Rafale judgement</a>

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG&nbsp;report and PAC, reported news agency PTI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-maldivian-president-solih-arrives-in-india-on-sunday-visa-pact-on-the-cards-184252">New Maldivian president Solih arrives in India on Sunday; visa pact on the cards</a>

Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday. The 3-day visit from 16-18th will see the President meeting Indian business leaders, being accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and address a joint press conference&nbsp;with Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256">NGT clears </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256">way</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256"> for reopening Thoothukudi Sterlite plant, Tamil Nadu govt to appeal</a>

The National Green Tribunal has set aside Tamil Nadu government's closure order of Vedanta`s copper smelter plant permanently saying it was non-sustainable and unjustified.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-extends-christian-michels-cbi-custody-by-4-days-184263">AgustaWestland case: Court extends Christian Michel's CBI custody by 4 days</a>

The Patiala House Court on Saturday extended the CBI custody of&nbsp;Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, by four days.&nbsp;The next hearing in the case is scheduled for December 19.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-wont-give-up-on-khashoggi-murder-probe-foreign-minister-184299">Turkey won't 'give up' on Khashoggi murder probe: Foreign minister</a>

Turkey's foreign minister said Saturday his country would "not give up" on finding out the truth about the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul.

&nbsp;

Govt files affidavit in SC seeking 'correction' in para which makes reference to CAG report, PAC in Rafale judgement A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG report and PAC, reported news agency PTI.

Govt files affidavit in SC seeking 'correction' in para which makes reference to CAG report, PAC in Rafale judgement A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG report and PAC, reported news agency PTI. New Maldivian president Solih arrives in India on Sunday; visa pact on the cards Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday. The 3-day visit from 16-18th will see the President meeting Indian business leaders, being accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and address a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. NGT clears way for reopening Thoothukudi Sterlite plant, Tamil Nadu govt to appeal The National Green Tribunal has set aside Tamil Nadu government's closure order of Vedanta`s copper smelter plant permanently saying it was non-sustainable and unjustified. AgustaWestland case: Court extends Christian Michel's CBI custody by 4 days The Patiala House Court on Saturday extended the CBI custody of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, by four days. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for December 19. Turkey won't 'give up' on Khashoggi murder probe: Foreign minister Turkey's foreign minister said Saturday his country would "not give up" on finding out the truth about the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul.

India is all set to roll out the red carpet for the New Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who will be on a 3-day India visit from Sunday.&nbsp;

Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday. The 3-day visit from 16-18th will see the President meeting Indian business leaders, being accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and address a joint press conference&nbsp;with Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.&nbsp;

He will also visit Agra during his India visit.&nbsp;

This will be President Solih's first visit abroad after assuming office and comes exactly a month after PM Modi visited Maldives to attend his&nbsp;swearing-in ceremony.&nbsp;

Solih took charge as the new President of the Indian Ocean Island country on 17 November and PM Modi was the only head of state invited for the ceremony.

Earlier, speaking to WION on President's visit, Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid said, "President will bring a message of goodwill of returning India-Maldives relation to normalcy. We recognise the long-standing generosity of the Indian government that will be the message, President Solih will bring"&nbsp;

Shahid also told WION&nbsp;that both countries will sign a visa agreement to ease people to people contact&nbsp;between both the countries.&nbsp;

"Visa agreement will ease difficulties faced by parents of Maldivian students studying in India &amp; Maldivians who travel to India for medical treatment," he said.

The previous Abdulla Yameen government not only junked the pro-India "India First Policy" but had decreased work permits or visas to Indians impacting people to people contact between the two countries.

Yameen, who was pro-Beijing, had signed a free trade agreement with China and allowed a number of Chinese infrastructure projects to be developed in the island country.

The Maldives has already started to reverse anti-India policies of former President Yameen.

Speaking to WION just a day after being made defence minister Mariya Didi she said two Indian helicopters which Yameen had asked New Delhi to take back the helicopter, will stay in the Maldives.&nbsp;

"It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give. The helicopters can be put to good use for medical evacuations &amp; for search and rescue," she said.

India also plans to increase infrastructure financing in the South Asian country which is approximately 1000 kilometres away from India's Malabar coast. India already been a leading development partner of Maldives and has established many of the leading institutions of Maldives.

When the tsunami struck the Maldives on December 26, 2004, India was the first country to rush relief and aid to the Maldives.&nbsp;

India is all set to roll out the red carpet for the New Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who will be on a 3-day India visit from Sunday. Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday.

India is all set to roll out the red carpet for the New Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who will be on a 3-day India visit from Sunday. Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday. The 3-day visit from 16-18th will see the President meeting Indian business leaders, being accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and address a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. He will also visit Agra during his India visit. This will be President Solih's first visit abroad after assuming office and comes exactly a month after PM Modi visited Maldives to attend his swearing-in ceremony. Solih took charge as the new President of the Indian Ocean Island country on 17 November and PM Modi was the only head of state invited for the ceremony. Earlier, speaking to WION on President's visit, Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid said, "President will bring a message of goodwill of returning India-Maldives relation to normalcy. We recognise the long-standing generosity of the Indian government that will be the message, President Solih will bring" Shahid also told WION that both countries will sign a visa agreement to ease people to people contact between both the countries. "Visa agreement will ease difficulties faced by parents of Maldivian students studying in India & Maldivians who travel to India for medical treatment," he said. The previous Abdulla Yameen government not only junked the pro-India "India First Policy" but had decreased work permits or visas to Indians impacting people to people contact between the two countries. Yameen, who was pro-Beijing, had signed a free trade agreement with China and allowed a number of Chinese infrastructure projects to be developed in the island country. The Maldives has already started to reverse anti-India policies of former President Yameen. Speaking to WION just a day after being made defence minister Mariya Didi she said two Indian helicopters which Yameen had asked New Delhi to take back the helicopter, will stay in the Maldives. "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give. The helicopters can be put to good use for medical evacuations & for search and rescue," she said. India also plans to increase infrastructure financing in the South Asian country which is approximately 1000 kilometres away from India's Malabar coast. India already been a leading development partner of Maldives and has established many of the leading institutions of Maldives. When the tsunami struck the Maldives on December 26, 2004, India was the first country to rush relief and aid to the Maldives.

New Maldivian president Solih arrives in India on Sunday; visa pact on the cards

Police in the Maldives have summoned former president Abdulla Yameen for questioning as part of investigations into deals he made during his tenure, many of them involving Chinese infrastructure projects, his party said.

Yameen lost a presidential election in September and the new government of his successor, Mohamed Ibrahim Solih, has been trying to determine the extent of Chinese loans to finance a construction boom in the Indian Ocean island nation.

"The service is investigating reports forwarded by state institutions that allege former president Abdulla Yameen conducted illicit financial transactions while he was president," police said in a statement late on Thursday.

Yameen has denied any wrongdoing and said that he took on loans to accelerate economic development.

Critics have alleged that contracts were given to Chinese companies at inflated prices, such as a bridge connecting the capital Male to the main airport of the palm-fringed islands famous for their luxury diving resorts.

Mohamed Hussain Shareef, secretary-general of Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives, said police had asked the former president to appear at their headquarters on Saturday.

The Maldives has become the latest battleground for influence between old rivals India and China.

Yameen steered the country of just over 400,000 people closer to China, away from traditional partner India.

But since Yameen's surprise election defeat, India has been re-exerting its influence.

On Monday, new president Solih will travel to India on his first overseas visit since taking over as president last month.

Police in the Maldives have summoned former president Abdulla Yameen for questioning as part of investigations into deals he made during his tenure, many of them involving Chinese infrastructure projects, his party said.

Police in the Maldives have summoned former president Abdulla Yameen for questioning as part of investigations into deals he made during his tenure, many of them involving Chinese infrastructure projects, his party said. Yameen lost a presidential election in September and the new government of his successor, Mohamed Ibrahim Solih, has been trying to determine the extent of Chinese loans to finance a construction boom in the Indian Ocean island nation. "The service is investigating reports forwarded by state institutions that allege former president Abdulla Yameen conducted illicit financial transactions while he was president," police said in a statement late on Thursday. Yameen has denied any wrongdoing and said that he took on loans to accelerate economic development. Critics have alleged that contracts were given to Chinese companies at inflated prices, such as a bridge connecting the capital Male to the main airport of the palm-fringed islands famous for their luxury diving resorts. Mohamed Hussain Shareef, secretary-general of Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives, said police had asked the former president to appear at their headquarters on Saturday. The Maldives has become the latest battleground for influence between old rivals India and China. Yameen steered the country of just over 400,000 people closer to China, away from traditional partner India. But since Yameen's surprise election defeat, India has been re-exerting its influence. On Monday, new president Solih will travel to India on his first overseas visit since taking over as president last month.

Maldives' police investigate ex-president Yameen over suspected 'illicit' deals

The Maldives will do all in its power to keep "our heads above water", the head of its delegation at UN climate talks said on Thursday in an impassioned appeal for nations to overcome their divisions over how to tackle global warming.

The low-lying Maldives is among countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change such as rising sea levels and coral reef deterioration.

"We are not prepared to die. We are not going to become the first victims of the climate crisis. Instead, we are going to do everything in our power to keep our heads above water," Mohamed Nasheed told delegates at the talks in Katowice, Poland.

"Climate change is a national security issue for us. It is an existential threat," he said, adding that a rise in global temperatures could still be avoided but countries had to unite.

Nasheed was the Maldives'&nbsp;first democratically elected leader but was ousted in 2012 in a coup, imprisoned then granted asylum in Britain.

The Maldives' current president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, invited Nasheed to head the country's negotiating delegation at the Katowice talks, which are aimed at agreeing rules for implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.

With less than two days until the conference is formally scheduled to end, delegates are still grappling with many issues - not just how the accord will be implemeted - including finance, strengthening emissions cuts and monitoring action.

A draft, more concise text of the deal should be available later on Thursday but it is expected to still be laden with brackets for wording to be decided on and gaps.

Since last addressing a UN climate conference in 2009, Nasheed said he had been deposed in a coup, imprisoned and then forced into exile.

"But almost 10 years since I was last at these climate negotiations, I must say, nothing much seems to have changed. We are still using the same old, dinosaur language," he said.

"Carbon emissions are rising, rising and rising and all we seem to be doing is talking, talking and talking."&nbsp;

The Maldives will do all in its power to keep "our heads above water", the head of its delegation at UN climate talks said on Thursday in an impassioned appeal for nations to overcome their divisions over how to tackle global warming.

The Maldives will do all in its power to keep "our heads above water", the head of its delegation at UN climate talks said on Thursday in an impassioned appeal for nations to overcome their divisions over how to tackle global warming. The low-lying Maldives is among countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change such as rising sea levels and coral reef deterioration. "We are not prepared to die. We are not going to become the first victims of the climate crisis. Instead, we are going to do everything in our power to keep our heads above water," Mohamed Nasheed told delegates at the talks in Katowice, Poland. "Climate change is a national security issue for us. It is an existential threat," he said, adding that a rise in global temperatures could still be avoided but countries had to unite. Nasheed was the Maldives' first democratically elected leader but was ousted in 2012 in a coup, imprisoned then granted asylum in Britain. The Maldives' current president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, invited Nasheed to head the country's negotiating delegation at the Katowice talks, which are aimed at agreeing rules for implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. With less than two days until the conference is formally scheduled to end, delegates are still grappling with many issues - not just how the accord will be implemeted - including finance, strengthening emissions cuts and monitoring action. A draft, more concise text of the deal should be available later on Thursday but it is expected to still be laden with brackets for wording to be decided on and gaps. Since last addressing a UN climate conference in 2009, Nasheed said he had been deposed in a coup, imprisoned and then forced into exile. "But almost 10 years since I was last at these climate negotiations, I must say, nothing much seems to have changed. We are still using the same old, dinosaur language," he said. "Carbon emissions are rising, rising and rising and all we seem to be doing is talking, talking and talking."

Maldives tells UN climate talks: 'We are not prepared to die'

The Maldives has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, reversing a policy of isolation under autocratic leader Abdulla Yameen who suffered a shock defeat in September.

His successor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, wrote to the 53-member bloc on Friday seeking readmission two years after Yameen pulled the atoll nation out of it, the president's office said Sunday.

Yameen withdrew the Maldives, an archipelago of 340,000 Sunni Muslims, from the Commonwealth after it mounted pressure on him to protect human rights and ensure the rule of law amid a ferocious crackdown on dissent.

Solih's office said the new president's administration believed in the values of the bloc, which consists mainly of former territories and colonies of the British empire.

"The Maldives' interest in re-joining the Commonwealth stems from a deep conviction that the values and principles enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter are more vital than ever," the president's office said in a statement.

The 54-year-old took office last month after winning a landslide election victory despite Yameen waging a crackdown on his political rivals and jailing most of the opposition.

The former British protectorate faced persistent international pressure during Yameen's iron-fisted tenure. The strongman accused the London-based Commonwealth Secretariat of interfering in the nation's affairs.

During Yameen's reign, the United States had repeatedly warned democracy was under serious threat in the strategically-located archipelago sitting on key international shipping lanes.

Since Solih's election, political prisoners have been freed and opposition figures in exile have returned home.

Solih has warned of a "dire" economic crisis in the Maldives and asked regional power India for help. Yameen had drifted closer to China and the Maldives saw its foreign debt balloon under his leadership.

The Maldives has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, reversing a policy of isolation under autocratic leader Abdulla Yameen who suffered a shock defeat in September.

The Maldives has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, reversing a policy of isolation under autocratic leader Abdulla Yameen who suffered a shock defeat in September. His successor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, wrote to the 53-member bloc on Friday seeking readmission two years after Yameen pulled the atoll nation out of it, the president's office said Sunday. Yameen withdrew the Maldives, an archipelago of 340,000 Sunni Muslims, from the Commonwealth after it mounted pressure on him to protect human rights and ensure the rule of law amid a ferocious crackdown on dissent. Solih's office said the new president's administration believed in the values of the bloc, which consists mainly of former territories and colonies of the British empire. "The Maldives' interest in re-joining the Commonwealth stems from a deep conviction that the values and principles enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter are more vital than ever," the president's office said in a statement. The 54-year-old took office last month after winning a landslide election victory despite Yameen waging a crackdown on his political rivals and jailing most of the opposition. The former British protectorate faced persistent international pressure during Yameen's iron-fisted tenure. The strongman accused the London-based Commonwealth Secretariat of interfering in the nation's affairs. During Yameen's reign, the United States had repeatedly warned democracy was under serious threat in the strategically-located archipelago sitting on key international shipping lanes. Since Solih's election, political prisoners have been freed and opposition figures in exile have returned home. Solih has warned of a "dire" economic crisis in the Maldives and asked regional power India for help. Yameen had drifted closer to China and the Maldives saw its foreign debt balloon under his leadership.

Maldives applies to rejoin Commonwealth: President's office

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid said that the Maldivian territory would not be used for the establishment of any foreign military bases.

Taking to Twitter, Shahid said, "Categorically refute media reports alleging that government is planning to allow the establishment of an Indian military base in Maldives in exchange for financial assistance or other material benefits. It is baseless and aimed at discrediting the government as it starts to rebuild good relations with its neighbours and the rest of the international community."

"Government assures the people, that it will always act in the national interest of Maldives and will not undertake any international engagement that will compromise the sovereignty and independence of the country," he added.

Shahid was reacting to a news article published in a Japanese Daily, NIKKIE Asian Review, which stated that India offered Maldives US $1 billion in exchange for stronger security ties.

Abdullah Shahid was recently on an official visit to New Delhi, where he met top leaders including his counterpart Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

He described India as time-tested and a trusted partner. He showed commitment to strengthen bilateral trade ties between the two countries.

The Foreign Minister, however, mentioned that his country will closely work with all of its neighbours and the international community.

He also called China as a friend and one of the largest economies of the world whose assistance had benefited Maldives.

New Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is scheduled to visit India on December 17 in keeping with his 'India-First'&nbsp;policy.&nbsp;

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation.

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation. The Minister for Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid said that the Maldivian territory would not be used for the establishment of any foreign military bases. Taking to Twitter, Shahid said, "Categorically refute media reports alleging that government is planning to allow the establishment of an Indian military base in Maldives in exchange for financial assistance or other material benefits. It is baseless and aimed at discrediting the government as it starts to rebuild good relations with its neighbours and the rest of the international community." "Government assures the people, that it will always act in the national interest of Maldives and will not undertake any international engagement that will compromise the sovereignty and independence of the country," he added. Shahid was reacting to a news article published in a Japanese Daily, NIKKIE Asian Review, which stated that India offered Maldives US $1 billion in exchange for stronger security ties. Abdullah Shahid was recently on an official visit to New Delhi, where he met top leaders including his counterpart Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He described India as time-tested and a trusted partner. He showed commitment to strengthen bilateral trade ties between the two countries. The Foreign Minister, however, mentioned that his country will closely work with all of its neighbours and the international community. He also called China as a friend and one of the largest economies of the world whose assistance had benefited Maldives. New Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is scheduled to visit India on December 17 in keeping with his 'India-First' policy.

Maldives denies media reports of Indian Army deployment

Faced with an acute budgetary deficit due to mounting foreign debts, the new government in the Maldives, led by President Abdulla Solih, is looking to India for financial support to help the island nation achieve its development goals.

It has announced the revival of its `India First` policy without affecting its engagement with China.

Sputnik quoted Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid saying that the new government in the island nation is still accounting the volume of Chinese debt and that the uncertainty arose only because of the `secret` style of functioning of the former government led by Abdulla Yameen.

The Maldives is said to owe at least 70 per cent of its external debts to China.

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"The former president was shrouded in secrecy. He did not share details with the public accounts committee of the Parliament. We are not commenting on the exact amount of debt with China because we are yet to ascertain it. We are reconciling with accounts," Shahid was quoted as saying in a statement during his recent visit to New Delhi.

Three ministers of the new Maldivian government, including Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer, and Minister of Economic Development Fayaz Ismail, were in India on a two-day official visit as a precursor to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih`s visit on December 17.

This will be Solih`s first foreign visit as President of the island nation.

The island nation has hinted that it is looking to India for help in bridging any budgetary shortfall that may arise in the initial days of governance while announcing that it will pursue `India first policy`.

"India is a natural and time-tested friend. We have recommitted ourselves to reigniting India-Maldives friendship to explore newer horizons.We are immediately looking at budgetary constraints. We need help from India for helping and diversification of our economy. We wish to vigorously engage with the Indian business community in this process," the Maldivian Foreign Minister told the media in New Delhi.

The Maldivian foreign minister, however, asserted that the Maldives` India First policy would be pursued without constraining its engagement with China."Former President Abdulla Yaseen tried to play China against India and India against China. I must say he failed miserably. One must not try to play one country against other. We have a strong India first policy but will engage all countries in Maldives` development," Shahid added to his statement.

The visiting ministerial delegation also made it clear that restarting stalled projects would be the primary agenda for the president`s upcoming visit.

"The Advance Light Helicopters will continue its presence in the Maldives and apart from that we are ready to receive the Dornier gifted by India as soon as it is released," the Maldivian minister said while signaling greater defence cooperation between India and the strategically important Maldivian island located in the Indian Ocean.

Faced with an acute budgetary deficit due to mounting foreign debts, the new government in the Maldives, led by President Abdulla Solih, is looking to India for financial support to help the island nation achieve its development goals.

Faced with an acute budgetary deficit due to mounting foreign debts, the new government in the Maldives, led by President Abdulla Solih, is looking to India for financial support to help the island nation achieve its development goals. It has announced the revival of its `India First` policy without affecting its engagement with China. Sputnik quoted Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid saying that the new government in the island nation is still accounting the volume of Chinese debt and that the uncertainty arose only because of the `secret` style of functioning of the former government led by Abdulla Yameen. The Maldives is said to owe at least 70 per cent of its external debts to China. × "The former president was shrouded in secrecy. He did not share details with the public accounts committee of the Parliament. We are not commenting on the exact amount of debt with China because we are yet to ascertain it. We are reconciling with accounts," Shahid was quoted as saying in a statement during his recent visit to New Delhi. Three ministers of the new Maldivian government, including Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer, and Minister of Economic Development Fayaz Ismail, were in India on a two-day official visit as a precursor to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih`s visit on December 17. This will be Solih`s first foreign visit as President of the island nation. The island nation has hinted that it is looking to India for help in bridging any budgetary shortfall that may arise in the initial days of governance while announcing that it will pursue `India first policy`. "India is a natural and time-tested friend. We have recommitted ourselves to reigniting India-Maldives friendship to explore newer horizons.We are immediately looking at budgetary constraints. We need help from India for helping and diversification of our economy. We wish to vigorously engage with the Indian business community in this process," the Maldivian Foreign Minister told the media in New Delhi. The Maldivian foreign minister, however, asserted that the Maldives` India First policy would be pursued without constraining its engagement with China."Former President Abdulla Yaseen tried to play China against India and India against China. I must say he failed miserably. One must not try to play one country against other. We have a strong India first policy but will engage all countries in Maldives` development," Shahid added to his statement. The visiting ministerial delegation also made it clear that restarting stalled projects would be the primary agenda for the president`s upcoming visit. "The Advance Light Helicopters will continue its presence in the Maldives and apart from that we are ready to receive the Dornier gifted by India as soon as it is released," the Maldivian minister said while signaling greater defence cooperation between India and the strategically important Maldivian island located in the Indian Ocean.

Maldives seeks India's assistance to pay off Chinese debt

The Maldives has seen a major change in the last few months. On November 17 Ibrahim Mohamed Solih took oath as new President in which India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the only head of state as a guest.&nbsp;The New President will be visiting India in December.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in an exclusive conversation with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal, the new Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid spoke at length about the expectation of the new Maldives government from India, Maldives-China Free Trade agreement, Indo-Pacific concept among other things.

WION: How do you characterise the current India-Maldives ties?

Abdulla Shahid: Thank you very much. It's a pleasure to be here in Delhi. My first visit after taking office. I had the opportunity to receive PM Modi at the airport upon his arrival at the stadium in which President Solih took the oath of office. The warmth with which people of Maldives received PM Modi on his arrival characterises the new era in India Maldives ties. The Modi-Solih meet was characterised by warmth, closeness and sincerity. I was in the meeting and I see nothing but success in years to come

WION: What kind of assistance would you expect from India?

Abdulla Shahid: As you know President Yameen's dictatorship had taken the country to the brink of bankruptcy. We need generous assistance from the Indian government to overcome the difficulties we are facing. We need budgetary assistance. We also need to deliver on the campaign promises we have made. The pledges of development need to be delivered. In order to do that.. we need general assistance.

WION: The India Maldives Joint statement called for security and peace in the Indian ocean. What are the threats the region faces?

Abdulla Shahid: Our region is key to maritime throughout the world. All the ships that travel between the African continent and northeast Pacific go through our waters. We have a responsibility. We have seen increased piracy in the Indian ocean. We have seen increased tension within the Indian ocean, be it the rivalry between neighbouring countries or rivalry between Indian ocean interested countries, we need to simmer it down. We need to make the Indian Ocean a zone of less tension and free access to all.

WION: How do you see the Indo-pacific concept and the quad?

Abdulla Shahid: We are fully involved in the Indo-Pacific concept of free access. In order for intl trade to increase, we need openness. We can't, in this day and age, draw lines or sea lanes.&nbsp;

WION: Your take on the Quad and statements made after the meet in Singapore on the country?

Abdulla Shahid: &nbsp;Statements shows they are concerned about the dictatorship that was in the Maldives.

WION: Indians faced a lot of visa restrictions. Will those be relaxed now?

Abdulla Shahid: When I meet my counterpart I will disc ease of visa restrictions for Maldivian nationals and Indian nationals. I think both are countries must come to an agreement on visa easing. Hoping to sign a new agreement during President Solih's visit in December

WION: So president Solih is coming to India in December?

Abdulla Shahid: The new president will bring a message of goodwill of returning India-Maldives relation to normalcy. We recognise the long-standing generosity of the Indian government that will be the message President Solih will bring.

WION: You defence minister has already told WION that Indian helicopters are needed. How important are they to your country?

Abdulla Shahid: These helicopters have been used for humanitarian missions. Total of 164 patients has been airlifted from remote islands to Male. We as a seafaring nation, we lose people in the sea. In having these machines on site, will help us launch missions more easily.

WION: What are the key foreign policy decisions you will be taking?

Abdulla Shahid: The foreign policy created by Yameen is a total disaster. The Maldives has been sidelined. The Maldives lost its credibility internationally, nobody listens to what the Maldives says. We as the chairman of the alliance of the small island in the last 2 years have not done anything. We have played into the hands of the people who want climate change debate to be sidelined. Two years as the chair of the alliance we became disreputed. We will be vocal again on climate change. We will be vocal on environment issues internationally. Last time we wanted to contest for human rights commission in Geneva under Yameen, we didn't get it due to disastrous track record. We will go back and establish our self as the lead country on human rights issue within the UN. We are joining the Commonwealth. The Maldives left commonwealth since it asked Yameen government to get back in the main folds of democracy and human rights. Commonwealth is an association or group of countries to promote human rights, democracy and good governance.

Parliament will endorse the cabinet decision and president will write to the commonwealth to rejoin it. Through it, our young people will get a lot of opportunities.

WION: No discussion is over without mentioning China. How will be the ties between New govt and China?

Abdulla Shahid: &nbsp;President Yameen tried to play India against China and China against India. He wanted to be a puppet master. India and China are much larger in capacity to see through what president Yameen was trying to do. President Yameen's failure came through because of the manner he dealt with relations. We will not try to be a puppet master. We know better. We should have good relations with both.&nbsp;

I know that both India and China will respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Maldives. None of these countries would be interested in making the Maldives part of theirs. They will be interested in sitting down with us as equals and discuss issues. I see that is the direction we have to go. We have to keep in mind that our closest neighbour is India. The country which has delivered assistance to us. India will also in the future help us not because of geographical proximity only but because of a long-lasting friendship. We had a water crisis in Male, and Indian navy helped us overcome the difficulty. Because of the proximity and nature of the relationship between two countries, India has the tendency to immediately help us without a second thought. It's the nature of the relationship. These are eg of past. In future, I see nothing but good will.&nbsp;

WION: Will you relook at Maldives China FTA?

Abdulla Shahid: FTA was rushed through the parliament. I was in the parliament that time and I was not informed of the session. Many of my collogues did not know seating was taking place until it was over. Parliament or the parliamentary committee took less than 15 minutes also to review the 100-page document. It is unreasonable to believe that such a document can be reviewed in such little time. Now I am the foreign minister and I'm supposed to comment on the document which I don't think is fair. So I will get my officials to go through the document and advice the government. I will get the new attorney general to look at it. It is fair that we go in an agreement of that nature of that importance after knowing what it has.

WION: How much the Maldives owes to China?

Abdulla Shahid: &nbsp;Finance minister was in parliament on Thursday and was asked the same question. He answered that figures don't tally. He said he was getting different figures from different departments. As soon as the FM is in a position to tell, I'll be in a better position to start comparing how much we owe to China and other countries. All we know up to now is that Yameen government has been most irresponsible in borrowing and taking us to the edge of the debt burden

WION: Your take on China's one belt and one road initiative?

Abdulla Shahid: Integration of economies of all countries of the region has to be thought about. The interest of the not only one country should be given priority. We will be looking into the integration of India, Sri Lanka and other countries of the region.&nbsp;

WION: One country in the region continues to indulge in cross-border terror and SAARC has been defunct due to this?

Abdulla Shahid: &nbsp;Terror is an issue that we need to address. We need to address at a regional level and international level. So the more we shy away from addressing it, the more, we damage the core values we sort to promote. We need to address the issue at the regional level.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Maldives has seen a major change in the last few months. On November 17 Ibrahim Mohamed Solih took oath as new President in which India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the only head of state as a guest.

The Maldives has seen a major change in the last few months. On November 17 Ibrahim Mohamed Solih took oath as new President in which India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the only head of state as a guest. The New President will be visiting India in December. Meanwhile, in an exclusive conversation with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal, the new Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid spoke at length about the expectation of the new Maldives government from India, Maldives-China Free Trade agreement, Indo-Pacific concept among other things. WION: How do you characterise the current India-Maldives ties? Abdulla Shahid: Thank you very much. It's a pleasure to be here in Delhi. My first visit after taking office. I had the opportunity to receive PM Modi at the airport upon his arrival at the stadium in which President Solih took the oath of office. The warmth with which people of Maldives received PM Modi on his arrival characterises the new era in India Maldives ties. The Modi-Solih meet was characterised by warmth, closeness and sincerity. I was in the meeting and I see nothing but success in years to come WION: What kind of assistance would you expect from India? Abdulla Shahid: As you know President Yameen's dictatorship had taken the country to the brink of bankruptcy. We need generous assistance from the Indian government to overcome the difficulties we are facing. We need budgetary assistance. We also need to deliver on the campaign promises we have made. The pledges of development need to be delivered. In order to do that.. we need general assistance. WION: The India Maldives Joint statement called for security and peace in the Indian ocean. What are the threats the region faces? Abdulla Shahid: Our region is key to maritime throughout the world. All the ships that travel between the African continent and northeast Pacific go through our waters. We have a responsibility. We have seen increased piracy in the Indian ocean. We have seen increased tension within the Indian ocean, be it the rivalry between neighbouring countries or rivalry between Indian ocean interested countries, we need to simmer it down. We need to make the Indian Ocean a zone of less tension and free access to all. WION: How do you see the Indo-pacific concept and the quad? Abdulla Shahid: We are fully involved in the Indo-Pacific concept of free access. In order for intl trade to increase, we need openness. We can't, in this day and age, draw lines or sea lanes. WION: Your take on the Quad and statements made after the meet in Singapore on the country? Abdulla Shahid: Statements shows they are concerned about the dictatorship that was in the Maldives. WION: Indians faced a lot of visa restrictions. Will those be relaxed now? Abdulla Shahid: When I meet my counterpart I will disc ease of visa restrictions for Maldivian nationals and Indian nationals. I think both are countries must come to an agreement on visa easing. Hoping to sign a new agreement during President Solih's visit in December WION: So president Solih is coming to India in December? Abdulla Shahid: The new president will bring a message of goodwill of returning India-Maldives relation to normalcy. We recognise the long-standing generosity of the Indian government that will be the message President Solih will bring. WION: You defence minister has already told WION that Indian helicopters are needed. How important are they to your country? Abdulla Shahid: These helicopters have been used for humanitarian missions. Total of 164 patients has been airlifted from remote islands to Male. We as a seafaring nation, we lose people in the sea. In having these machines on site, will help us launch missions more easily. WION: What are the key foreign policy decisions you will be taking? Abdulla Shahid: The foreign policy created by Yameen is a total disaster. The Maldives has been sidelined. The Maldives lost its credibility internationally, nobody listens to what the Maldives says. We as the chairman of the alliance of the small island in the last 2 years have not done anything. We have played into the hands of the people who want climate change debate to be sidelined. Two years as the chair of the alliance we became disreputed. We will be vocal again on climate change. We will be vocal on environment issues internationally. Last time we wanted to contest for human rights commission in Geneva under Yameen, we didn't get it due to disastrous track record. We will go back and establish our self as the lead country on human rights issue within the UN. We are joining the Commonwealth. The Maldives left commonwealth since it asked Yameen government to get back in the main folds of democracy and human rights. Commonwealth is an association or group of countries to promote human rights, democracy and good governance. Parliament will endorse the cabinet decision and president will write to the commonwealth to rejoin it. Through it, our young people will get a lot of opportunities. WION: No discussion is over without mentioning China. How will be the ties between New govt and China? Abdulla Shahid: President Yameen tried to play India against China and China against India. He wanted to be a puppet master. India and China are much larger in capacity to see through what president Yameen was trying to do. President Yameen's failure came through because of the manner he dealt with relations. We will not try to be a puppet master. We know better. We should have good relations with both. I know that both India and China will respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Maldives. None of these countries would be interested in making the Maldives part of theirs. They will be interested in sitting down with us as equals and discuss issues. I see that is the direction we have to go. We have to keep in mind that our closest neighbour is India. The country which has delivered assistance to us. India will also in the future help us not because of geographical proximity only but because of a long-lasting friendship. We had a water crisis in Male, and Indian navy helped us overcome the difficulty. Because of the proximity and nature of the relationship between two countries, India has the tendency to immediately help us without a second thought. It's the nature of the relationship. These are eg of past. In future, I see nothing but good will. WION: Will you relook at Maldives China FTA? Abdulla Shahid: FTA was rushed through the parliament. I was in the parliament that time and I was not informed of the session. Many of my collogues did not know seating was taking place until it was over. Parliament or the parliamentary committee took less than 15 minutes also to review the 100-page document. It is unreasonable to believe that such a document can be reviewed in such little time. Now I am the foreign minister and I'm supposed to comment on the document which I don't think is fair. So I will get my officials to go through the document and advice the government. I will get the new attorney general to look at it. It is fair that we go in an agreement of that nature of that importance after knowing what it has. WION: How much the Maldives owes to China? Abdulla Shahid: Finance minister was in parliament on Thursday and was asked the same question. He answered that figures don't tally. He said he was getting different figures from different departments. As soon as the FM is in a position to tell, I'll be in a better position to start comparing how much we owe to China and other countries. All we know up to now is that Yameen government has been most irresponsible in borrowing and taking us to the edge of the debt burden WION: Your take on China's one belt and one road initiative? Abdulla Shahid: Integration of economies of all countries of the region has to be thought about. The interest of the not only one country should be given priority. We will be looking into the integration of India, Sri Lanka and other countries of the region. WION: One country in the region continues to indulge in cross-border terror and SAARC has been defunct due to this? Abdulla Shahid: Terror is an issue that we need to address. We need to address at a regional level and international level. So the more we shy away from addressing it, the more, we damage the core values we sort to promote. We need to address the issue at the regional level.

With China tilt over, Maldives says it is looking for 'generous aid' from India

WION Gravitas: Maldives Supreme Court acquits former president Mohamed Nasheed

Watch: WION Dispatch, 26th November, 2018

In conversation with Abdulla Shahid, Foreign Minister, Maldives

One week after taking power, the new government of the Maldives says it has no idea how much it owes China, which has led a construction spree in the tiny Indian Ocean nation, but fears the debts run up in the past five years could be unsustainable.

Mohamed Nasheed, a former president now serving as an adviser to new President Mohamed Ibrahim Solih, said that the Chinese ambassador to the Maldives, Zhang Lizhong, handed the government an invoice for $3.2 billion - equivalent to around $8,000 for every inhabitant of the archipelago. China denies that, however, and says the number is closer to $1.5 billion.

"It was an invoice. It just had a figure, $3.2 billion. It was shocking," said Nasheed. "It wasn't just a conversation, it was a written note handed over, it was clear, you owe us this much."

Nasheed said Zhang gave Solih the note at a meeting on Oct. 6, days after his stunning election victory over former President Abdulla Yameen. He did not give further details of exactly how the note was worded.

Asked about Nasheed's comments, China's Foreign Ministry said that its ambassador in the Maldives had rejected "this untruth" in statements to local media, referring to an interview with news website Avas in which Zhang was quoted as saying reports of debt of around $3 billion were "deeply exaggerated".

China has underwritten millions of dollars in loans for infrastructure in the Maldives, located along its busy shipping route to the Middle East.

But the unprecedented building boom in the island chain of around 400,000 people - known for its white sand beaches and luminous cyan water - stoked fears it was loading up on debt and prompted a strident opposition campaign that helped Solih defeat Yameen in an election in September.

CONFLICTING FIGURES

After taking office at the weekend, Solih's administration has said the country's finances are in worse shape than expected, and that it will take weeks or months to untangle details of all the deals struck with Chinese firms.

"We are at a loss to understand how much we really owe to China," said Nasheed.

"Direct debt, or direct bilateral government-to-government debt is one thing, but there is on top of that sovereign guarantees for the private sector. And there is also on top of that our state-owned enterprises who have gone into debt."

Yameen could not be reached for comment. But he said during the campaign that more work had occurred over the last few years than at any point in the past, and for that, he had taken on debt.

"Years of development have come during a short period of four or five years. But if we didn't take on debt as I said, and waited to do it with the income the Maldives earns this wouldn't have been possible," he said.

In the Avas interview, Zhang said the Maldives' debt to China was $600 million to construct a sea bridge linking the capital Male with the airport, expand the airport, and build residential tower blocks on land reclaimed from the sea. Another $900 million had been earmarked as commercial loans to some state-owned companies to fund projects from power to housing, the ambassador said, but much of that had not yet been issued.

That was broadly supported by the governor of the Maldives central bank in testimony before the parliament's public finance committee on Wednesday, in which he estimated the country's liabilities to China at $1.5 billion.

Maldives Monetary Authority' Governor Ahmed Naseer, who was appointed by the previous government, said he believed a total of government-to-government debt from China amounted to $600 million. The remaining $900 million was an estimate of loans financed by Chinese banks with sovereign guarantees from the Maldives government, he said.

Nasheed said the Chinese ambassador's public statements were at variance with what the Chinese side had conveyed to Solih. The ambassador had since requested a meeting with him, he said.

Maldives' Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid said on Thursday he planned to visit China soon to discuss bilateral issues.

SOVEREIGN GUARANTEES

An official who was in Solih's transition team and who joined the government this week said he too had been told about the Chinese note submitted last month, and that the figure may have swelled because of sovereign guarantees that were given.

"We are trying to unravel this. It looks like lots of IOUs were issued, pieces of paper. We are trying to find out, how many and to whom," the official said, requesting anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

With annual revenues of $1.5 billion and an annual gross domestic product of around $3.9 billion, it would be hard for the Maldives to service such a high debt, another incoming official, who is reviewing the liabilities of state-run enterprises, said.

"We cannot go into default. We will face a default situation if we agree the debt to be what the sovereign guarantees are saying," the official said, asking not to be named because he was not authorised to speak to reporters.

Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high-speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls.

Yameen also leased Chinese developers an unspecified number of islands to build resorts for tourists, a fifth of whom are Chinese, in a dramatic expansion of ties since Beijing opened its embassy in the Maldives eight years ago.

"We would like to reiterate, mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the Maldives takes place on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, and has already achieved results that are plain for all to see, and has been welcomed by the people of the Maldives," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement sent to Reuters.

"We believe that under the leadership of the new Maldives government, China-Maldives friendly cooperation will continue to advance, and will keep making new achievements."

One week after taking power, the new government of the Maldives says it has no idea how much it owes China, which has led a construction spree in the tiny Indian Ocean nation, but fears the debts run up in the past five years could be unsustainable.

One week after taking power, the new government of the Maldives says it has no idea how much it owes China, which has led a construction spree in the tiny Indian Ocean nation, but fears the debts run up in the past five years could be unsustainable. Mohamed Nasheed, a former president now serving as an adviser to new President Mohamed Ibrahim Solih, said that the Chinese ambassador to the Maldives, Zhang Lizhong, handed the government an invoice for $3.2 billion - equivalent to around $8,000 for every inhabitant of the archipelago. China denies that, however, and says the number is closer to $1.5 billion. "It was an invoice. It just had a figure, $3.2 billion. It was shocking," said Nasheed. "It wasn't just a conversation, it was a written note handed over, it was clear, you owe us this much." Nasheed said Zhang gave Solih the note at a meeting on Oct. 6, days after his stunning election victory over former President Abdulla Yameen. He did not give further details of exactly how the note was worded. Asked about Nasheed's comments, China's Foreign Ministry said that its ambassador in the Maldives had rejected "this untruth" in statements to local media, referring to an interview with news website Avas in which Zhang was quoted as saying reports of debt of around $3 billion were "deeply exaggerated". China has underwritten millions of dollars in loans for infrastructure in the Maldives, located along its busy shipping route to the Middle East. But the unprecedented building boom in the island chain of around 400,000 people - known for its white sand beaches and luminous cyan water - stoked fears it was loading up on debt and prompted a strident opposition campaign that helped Solih defeat Yameen in an election in September. CONFLICTING FIGURES After taking office at the weekend, Solih's administration has said the country's finances are in worse shape than expected, and that it will take weeks or months to untangle details of all the deals struck with Chinese firms. "We are at a loss to understand how much we really owe to China," said Nasheed. "Direct debt, or direct bilateral government-to-government debt is one thing, but there is on top of that sovereign guarantees for the private sector. And there is also on top of that our state-owned enterprises who have gone into debt." Yameen could not be reached for comment. But he said during the campaign that more work had occurred over the last few years than at any point in the past, and for that, he had taken on debt. "Years of development have come during a short period of four or five years. But if we didn't take on debt as I said, and waited to do it with the income the Maldives earns this wouldn't have been possible," he said. In the Avas interview, Zhang said the Maldives' debt to China was $600 million to construct a sea bridge linking the capital Male with the airport, expand the airport, and build residential tower blocks on land reclaimed from the sea. Another $900 million had been earmarked as commercial loans to some state-owned companies to fund projects from power to housing, the ambassador said, but much of that had not yet been issued. That was broadly supported by the governor of the Maldives central bank in testimony before the parliament's public finance committee on Wednesday, in which he estimated the country's liabilities to China at $1.5 billion. Maldives Monetary Authority' Governor Ahmed Naseer, who was appointed by the previous government, said he believed a total of government-to-government debt from China amounted to $600 million. The remaining $900 million was an estimate of loans financed by Chinese banks with sovereign guarantees from the Maldives government, he said. Nasheed said the Chinese ambassador's public statements were at variance with what the Chinese side had conveyed to Solih. The ambassador had since requested a meeting with him, he said. Maldives' Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid said on Thursday he planned to visit China soon to discuss bilateral issues. SOVEREIGN GUARANTEES An official who was in Solih's transition team and who joined the government this week said he too had been told about the Chinese note submitted last month, and that the figure may have swelled because of sovereign guarantees that were given. "We are trying to unravel this. It looks like lots of IOUs were issued, pieces of paper. We are trying to find out, how many and to whom," the official said, requesting anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. With annual revenues of $1.5 billion and an annual gross domestic product of around $3.9 billion, it would be hard for the Maldives to service such a high debt, another incoming official, who is reviewing the liabilities of state-run enterprises, said. "We cannot go into default. We will face a default situation if we agree the debt to be what the sovereign guarantees are saying," the official said, asking not to be named because he was not authorised to speak to reporters. Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high-speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls. Yameen also leased Chinese developers an unspecified number of islands to build resorts for tourists, a fifth of whom are Chinese, in a dramatic expansion of ties since Beijing opened its embassy in the Maldives eight years ago. "We would like to reiterate, mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the Maldives takes place on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, and has already achieved results that are plain for all to see, and has been welcomed by the people of the Maldives," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement sent to Reuters. "We believe that under the leadership of the new Maldives government, China-Maldives friendly cooperation will continue to advance, and will keep making new achievements."

After building spree, just how much does the Maldives owe China?

China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact.

Mohamed Nasheed, the chief of the Maldivian Democratic Party, which leads the ruling federal alliance, told Reuters this week that it was a mistake to strike such a deal with the world's second biggest economy.

The Maldives parliament would not pass the law changes required for the zero tariffs agreement to come into force, he said.

His comments followed a warning from the new President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who took office on Saturday, that the Maldives was in financial difficulty after racking up debt with Chinese lenders.

In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a regular news briefing that the trade deal had undergone friendly and equal consultations, and that it is "mutually beneficial".

"Its early implementation will lead to early benefits for both sides. We believe the Maldives government will make the correct choice," Geng said, without elaborating.

Best-known for its luxury resorts on palm-fringed coral islands, the Maldives is among a number of small countries where China has invested billions of dollars building highways and housing as part of its Belt and Road Initiative.

The initiative aims to boost China's trade and investment flows with much of Asia and parts of the rest of the world. However, projects are facing opposition in some countries amid concerns about a debt trap that China has rejected.

Former Maldives President Abdullah Yameen, who lost the election in September, signed the trade deal during a December visit to Beijing. The Maldives parliament ratified the treaty despite opposition protests that he had rushed through the 1,000-page document in less than an hour without any debate.

Nasheed, a former president and now an adviser to Solih, has called the agreement a "one-way treaty" that favours China.

Critics in the Maldives say a China-led infrastructure boom has left the country of a little more than 400,000 people debt-ridden, and a free trade pact would only make the situation worse given the lopsided nature of the relationship.

Between January to August this year, the Maldives' imports from China were $342 million, while its exports to China were just $265,270, according to Maldives customs data.

China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact.

China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact. Mohamed Nasheed, the chief of the Maldivian Democratic Party, which leads the ruling federal alliance, told Reuters this week that it was a mistake to strike such a deal with the world's second biggest economy. The Maldives parliament would not pass the law changes required for the zero tariffs agreement to come into force, he said. His comments followed a warning from the new President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who took office on Saturday, that the Maldives was in financial difficulty after racking up debt with Chinese lenders. In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a regular news briefing that the trade deal had undergone friendly and equal consultations, and that it is "mutually beneficial". "Its early implementation will lead to early benefits for both sides. We believe the Maldives government will make the correct choice," Geng said, without elaborating. Best-known for its luxury resorts on palm-fringed coral islands, the Maldives is among a number of small countries where China has invested billions of dollars building highways and housing as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. The initiative aims to boost China's trade and investment flows with much of Asia and parts of the rest of the world. However, projects are facing opposition in some countries amid concerns about a debt trap that China has rejected. Former Maldives President Abdullah Yameen, who lost the election in September, signed the trade deal during a December visit to Beijing. The Maldives parliament ratified the treaty despite opposition protests that he had rushed through the 1,000-page document in less than an hour without any debate. Nasheed, a former president and now an adviser to Solih, has called the agreement a "one-way treaty" that favours China. Critics in the Maldives say a China-led infrastructure boom has left the country of a little more than 400,000 people debt-ridden, and a free trade pact would only make the situation worse given the lopsided nature of the relationship. Between January to August this year, the Maldives' imports from China were $342 million, while its exports to China were just $265,270, according to Maldives customs data.

We believe Maldives will make correct choice on trade deal: Chinese foreign ministry

The Maldives foreign minister will visit Beijing before the end of 2018, officials said Wednesday, likely seeking to renegotiate the archipelago's Chinese debt.

China has loaned billions of dollars to countries around the Indian Ocean and beyond for infrastructure development, stoking fears of a debt trap.

The new Maldives government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called for a review of Chinese-bankrolled projects initiated under predecessor Abdulla Yameen.

Former president Mohamed Nasheed, now Solih's mentor, has accused China of a land grab in the strategically placed Indian Ocean archipelago and called a free-trade agreement (FTA) agreed with Beijing under Yameen one-sided.

The announcement of Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid's upcoming trip to China came after he held talks with the Chinese ambassador in Male, Zhang Lizhong, on Monday.

The duo "discussed the progress of on-going Chinese projects... and future cooperation in areas of importance to the Maldives," the foreign ministry said without giving further details.

China's ambassador told the local Avas.mv website that in fact only about half of the Maldives' external debt pile of $1.2 billion was owed to Beijing.

He said the loans carried a two-per cent interest rate and a five-year grace period, while also disputing claims of a debt trap.

"We have nothing to gain if a friendly country falls into debt," he said. "There is no single (piece of) evidence to support the so-called debt trap claim."

Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has said that the Maldives owes China around three billion dollars.

On Tuesday in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the FTA, which still has to be ratified by the Maldives parliament, was "a mutually beneficial and win-win" agreement.

"We believe that the Maldivian government will make the right choice."

Neighbouring Sri Lanka was forced to hand over a loss-making port to a Chinese state-owned company last year on a 99-year lease after failing to repay a $1.4-billion Chinese loan.

Soon after taking office at the weekend, Solih warned of a "dire" economic crisis as he turned to India for help, signalling an end to the pro-China stance of his predecessor Yameen.

Solih, who was little known before his surprise election win, briefed India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi "on the dire economic situation" according to a joint statement after Saturday's swearing-in attended by Modi.

India has been the country's traditional main ally but Yameen, whose iron-fisted rule saw a string of political rivals locked up or exiled and the press muzzled, moved closer to China.

The Maldives foreign minister will visit Beijing before the end of 2018, officials said Wednesday, likely seeking to renegotiate the archipelago's Chinese debt. China has loaned billions of dollars to countries around the Indian Ocean and beyond for infrastructure development, stoking fears of a debt trap.

The Maldives foreign minister will visit Beijing before the end of 2018, officials said Wednesday, likely seeking to renegotiate the archipelago's Chinese debt. China has loaned billions of dollars to countries around the Indian Ocean and beyond for infrastructure development, stoking fears of a debt trap. The new Maldives government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called for a review of Chinese-bankrolled projects initiated under predecessor Abdulla Yameen. Former president Mohamed Nasheed, now Solih's mentor, has accused China of a land grab in the strategically placed Indian Ocean archipelago and called a free-trade agreement (FTA) agreed with Beijing under Yameen one-sided. The announcement of Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid's upcoming trip to China came after he held talks with the Chinese ambassador in Male, Zhang Lizhong, on Monday. The duo "discussed the progress of on-going Chinese projects... and future cooperation in areas of importance to the Maldives," the foreign ministry said without giving further details. China's ambassador told the local Avas.mv website that in fact only about half of the Maldives' external debt pile of $1.2 billion was owed to Beijing. He said the loans carried a two-per cent interest rate and a five-year grace period, while also disputing claims of a debt trap. "We have nothing to gain if a friendly country falls into debt," he said. "There is no single (piece of) evidence to support the so-called debt trap claim." Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has said that the Maldives owes China around three billion dollars. On Tuesday in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the FTA, which still has to be ratified by the Maldives parliament, was "a mutually beneficial and win-win" agreement. "We believe that the Maldivian government will make the right choice." Neighbouring Sri Lanka was forced to hand over a loss-making port to a Chinese state-owned company last year on a 99-year lease after failing to repay a $1.4-billion Chinese loan. Soon after taking office at the weekend, Solih warned of a "dire" economic crisis as he turned to India for help, signalling an end to the pro-China stance of his predecessor Yameen. Solih, who was little known before his surprise election win, briefed India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi "on the dire economic situation" according to a joint statement after Saturday's swearing-in attended by Modi. India has been the country's traditional main ally but Yameen, whose iron-fisted rule saw a string of political rivals locked up or exiled and the press muzzled, moved closer to China.

Maldives to send envoy to China seeking renegotiation of debt

China's foreign ministry has reacted sharply to comments made by former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed saying Male will pull out of the Maldives-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that was signed under the previous Yameen administration. &nbsp;

Hoping "the Maldivian government will make the right choice in this regards", Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said. "Early implementation of the agreement will deliver benefits to the two sides at an early date." He added that the FTA was reached "through friendly and equal consultation, which is mutually beneficial."

Speaking to the news agency Reuters on Monday, Mohamed Nasheed said, “It was ratified by parliament, but fortunately it calls for different sets of legislation. We are not going to have this further legislation. We can’t go with that.”&nbsp;

Nasheed, along with former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, is considered the power behind <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-new-president-solih-warns-state-coffers-looted-after-china-led-boom-177940">new President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih</a>.

Bejing also reacted to the new Maldivian government's plans to review and audit a number of Chinese projects. "China is committed to deepening our win-win cooperation with Maldives, and our will to maintain good relations with Maldives is firm and clear cut," Geng Shuang said.&nbsp;

China was represented at Solih's swearing-in ceremony by Luo Shugang, Special Envoy of the Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Minister of Culture and Tourism. Shugang also called on the new President later.&nbsp;

At that meeting, the Special Envoy of the Chinese President assured President Solih of China’s commitment to further strengthening their close bilateral relations.&nbsp;

According to a release from the president's office, Solih underscored the "contributions made by China to the development of Maldives over the years" and further "expressed his confidence for continued cooperation between the two countries in the future."

Maldives' relationship with China had progressed under former President Yameen but he had junked the India First policy which Male had traditionally been pursuing. The Solih government has made a pledge to reset ties with New Delhi and the new Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid will be visiting India on November 26.&nbsp;

China has been building a number of infrastructure projects in the Indian ocean Island country but that has been the cause of worry since it has lead to an increase in debt. Speaking to WION a few months ago, Nasheed had said, "China has been using debt as a leverage"

China's foreign ministry has reacted sharply to comments made by former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed saying Male will pull out of the Maldives-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that was signed under the previous Yameen administration.

China's foreign ministry has reacted sharply to comments made by former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed saying Male will pull out of the Maldives-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that was signed under the previous Yameen administration. Hoping "the Maldivian government will make the right choice in this regards", Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said. "Early implementation of the agreement will deliver benefits to the two sides at an early date." He added that the FTA was reached "through friendly and equal consultation, which is mutually beneficial." Speaking to the news agency Reuters on Monday, Mohamed Nasheed said, “It was ratified by parliament, but fortunately it calls for different sets of legislation. We are not going to have this further legislation. We can’t go with that.” Nasheed, along with former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, is considered the power behind new President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Bejing also reacted to the new Maldivian government's plans to review and audit a number of Chinese projects. "China is committed to deepening our win-win cooperation with Maldives, and our will to maintain good relations with Maldives is firm and clear cut," Geng Shuang said. China was represented at Solih's swearing-in ceremony by Luo Shugang, Special Envoy of the Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Minister of Culture and Tourism. Shugang also called on the new President later. At that meeting, the Special Envoy of the Chinese President assured President Solih of China’s commitment to further strengthening their close bilateral relations. According to a release from the president's office, Solih underscored the "contributions made by China to the development of Maldives over the years" and further "expressed his confidence for continued cooperation between the two countries in the future." Maldives' relationship with China had progressed under former President Yameen but he had junked the India First policy which Male had traditionally been pursuing. The Solih government has made a pledge to reset ties with New Delhi and the new Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid will be visiting India on November 26. China has been building a number of infrastructure projects in the Indian ocean Island country but that has been the cause of worry since it has lead to an increase in debt. Speaking to WION a few months ago, Nasheed had said, "China has been using debt as a leverage"

China says Maldives will make 'right choice' on free trade deal

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