Diplomatic relations are backbone of economy; Ras Male' agreement must be disclosed: Shahid

As the world becomes increasingly globalized, diplomatic relations between nations serve as the backbone of the economy. Former President of the MDP, Abdulla Shahid, stated that any disruption to these ties would leave ordinary citizens and small businesses to bear the brunt of the consequences.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 5th MDP Congress on Saturday night, Shahid expressed deep concern over the secrecy surrounding the agreement allegedly signed by the current administration regarding the Fushidhiggaru Lagoon project, also known as Ras Male'.

Shahid stated that due to a complete lack of transparency and good governance within the current administration, no one is aware of the actual contents of the agreement. He further noted that this secrecy forces the public to rely on speculation, which he warned would ultimately lead to the deterioration of diplomatic relations with friendly nations.

Furthermore, Shahid called for the disclosure of the Ras Male' agreement.

I reiterate my call tonight for the government to cease the practice of concealing agreements made between the state and major foreign corporations, including the Ras Male' project, and to make them public. Public trust can only be earned through increased transparency.

Abdulla Shahid

Describing the Fushidhiggaru Falhu agreement as "deceptus ab initio"—or fraudulent from its inception—Shahid alleged that there are significant discrepancies within the deal. These include the methods of financing and sand reclamation, as well as inconsistencies regarding the project's name and the formal agreement itself.