Shahid describes India as "all-weather" friend to the Maldives

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdullah Shahid has praised India as a steadfast ally of the Maldives in all circumstances.

In a message sent to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, and the people of India on the occasion of India's Independence Day, Shahid highlighted India's role as an "all-weather" friend to the Maldives. He emphasized that India has consistently been the first and most reliable responder during any crisis faced by the Maldives.

"India has proved to be an “all-weather” friend of the Maldives. Our first and best responder for any crisis we have faced. An invaluable partner in our development journey. The people of Maldives continue to benefit from the generous development assistance and human resource development, and deeply cherish this relationship," he wrote.

Along with other MDP officials, Shahid met Minister Jaishankar on the minister's recent official visit to the Maldives. Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Shahid criticized the "India Out" campaign led by the current government leaders during the MDP administration, describing it as misleading. However, MDP welcomes the efforts being made by the current government to strengthen relations with India after recognizing India's value, he had said.