Maldives won't allow foreign control over any part of its territory, govt says

The Maldivian government has declared that it will not allow any part of the country's territory to come under foreign military or other forms of control under any circumstances.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the President's Office said permitting foreign entities to exercise control over any part of Maldivian territory, including international shipping routes within its jurisdiction and the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), would undermine national independence and sovereignty.

The government also warned that such arrangements could affect regional peace and security.

"Accordingly, the Government of Maldives reaffirms that no part of Maldivian territory will, under any circumstances, be placed under foreign military or operational surveillance initiatives," the statement said.

The government also urged all parties to refrain from actions that could invite foreign influence, directly or indirectly, in ways that could compromise the country's sovereignty.

The President's Office said the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Maldives were inalienable rights of the Maldivian state and its people, upon which the country's independence depends.

It further stated that the Constitution places full authority and responsibility for protecting Maldivian territory with the state.

The statement said Maldivians had consistently safeguarded the country's independence and sovereignty within its territorial boundaries.

Referring to the Maldives' geographical position, the government noted that a significant proportion of global oil shipments and international trade passes through maritime routes in the region.

It said the Maldives had long contributed to regional stability and international trade by facilitating the peaceful use of its maritime territory.

The statement comes amid growing controversy over an agreement signed with Eagle Hills, a company based in the United Arab Emirates, for the development of Ras Malé.

Opposition political figures and other critics of the project have raised concerns about the agreement, including allegations that it could facilitate the settlement of Zionists and people of other religions in the Maldives.

Questions have also been raised over the government's decision not to publicly disclose the terms of the agreement.

The President's Office statement did not specifically refer to Eagle Hills or the Ras Malé development agreement.