Shaheem declines to elaborate on previous claims regarding extension of Arab oil pipelines through Kaashidhoo Sea
Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed declined to comment when questioned about presidential campaign pledges regarding the installation of Arab oil pipelines through the Kaashidhoo Sea. Addressing the matter, Finance Minister Moosa Zameer emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with Arab nations, noting that the Maldives currently sources its oil from the region. However, the government has yet to disclose any concrete progress or practical measures taken in collaboration with Arab-Islamic partners to alleviate the burden on citizens amidst rising fuel prices.
Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, the Minister of Islamic Affairs under the administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, the Islamic Minister in President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, has declined to comment further or answer questions regarding his previous claims that Arab oil pipelines would be extended through the Kaashidhoo Sea.
"God willing, we will lay oil pipelines from Arab nations through the Kaashidhoo Channel if necessary," stated Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s Minister of Islamic Affairs, during the 2023 presidential campaign. Raajje TV raised a question regarding these podium remarks during a press conference held at the President's Office on Sunday.
The inquiry sought to clarify whether this would be the most opportune moment to act, given the rising cost of fuel and the government's claims of strengthening ties with Arab and Islamic nations. However, Minister Shaheem declined to answer the question.
However, in response to the question, Finance Minister Moosa Zameer omitted Minister Shaheem’s previous remarks regarding the extraction of oil pipelines from the Kaashidhoo Sea, choosing instead to focus on international relations. Minister Zameer stated that he has worked extensively alongside Minister Shaheem to strengthen ties with Arab nations. He noted that this collaboration dates back to his tenure as Foreign Minister. Regarding the current oil supply, he emphasized that all fuel imported to date has been sourced from Arab nations, specifically highlighting that shipments are currently brought in from Oman, the nearest supplier in the region.
Furthermore, Minister Shaheem recalled his statement from the presidential campaign, asserting that the Maldives would stand in solidarity with the citizens of Islamic nations, sharing in their prosperity and their hardships alike.
However, the government has yet to disclose any efforts made in collaboration with Arab and Islamic nations to provide relief to the public in connection with this war.
