The Maldives government has clarified that its signing of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS)’s Samoa agreement was conducted in a manner that upholds Islamic values and adheres to the Constitution.
The government's clarification comes amid criticism that the Samoa agreement contained provisions that violate Islam and the constitution.
Responding to criticism, Chief Spokesperson of the President’s Office, Heena Waleed, said the Samoa agreement was signed after submitting reservations to opt out of 12 clauses that are contrary to Islam and the Constitution.
The Samoa Agreement, signed on Monday, establishes a legal framework for the EU – OACPS relationship for the next 20 years, covering six main areas: Human Rights and Democracy, Peace and Security, Development, Economic Growth, Climate Change and Migration and Mobility.
According to the government, the agreement will enhance Maldives access to opportunities provided by the European Union in various ecotours including fish exports, enabling better export rates.
