Government Rejects Foreign Control of Maldives’ Waters

The Maldivian government has said it will not hand over authority over the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) or maritime areas to foreign militaries or other parties.

The statement follows former President Mohamed Nasheed’s remarks that the Maldives cannot safeguard its security and sovereignty without the Indian military.

In its response, the government said the Constitution requires the state to protect Maldivian territory and waters under its own authority, describing sovereignty as a fundamental right of the Maldivian people.

The government also highlighted the Maldives’ strategic importance to international trade and energy routes, saying regional peace and security remain national priorities.

It warned that allowing foreign military control over any part of the country would undermine national independence and potentially threaten regional security.