Nasheed expresses concern over the spread of extremism in the Maldives
11 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | އާދީއްތަ 09:04Highlighting the vital importance of maintaining a robust relationship with India for national security and regional stability, President Nasheed warned that climate change is driving nations into unsustainable debt and economic peril. Furthermore, he called for the strengthening of the education system and law enforcement services to combat the internal threat of extremism.
Former President of the Maldives and Speaker of the People’s Majlis, Mohamed Nasheed, delivers a keynote address at the "Global COP26 Legislators Summit" held on November 5, 2021, at Holyrood in Edinburgh, Scotland. | getty images
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed grave concern over the spread of extremism in the Maldives, describing it as a significant challenge facing the capital, Malé, and the entire nation. In an interview with Firstpost’s Palki Sharma Upadhyay on the sidelines of the "Sagarmanthan 2024" summit, Nasheed spoke extensively on climate change, economic vulnerabilities, and the geopolitical rivalry between India and China within the Indian Ocean region.
Highlighting the Maldives' reliance on India for its national security, President Nasheed stated that maintaining a relationship with India is essential for regional stability. "We require India's assistance for our safety and security," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of a robust partnership with New Delhi despite China's growing influence in the region. Furthermore, he addressed the economic consequences of disruptions to maritime trade routes, noting the adverse impact on the Maldivian economy caused by challenges in critical areas such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb.
Speaking on climate change, President Nasheed repeatedly emphasized that vulnerable nations like the Maldives are not seeking charity, but rather the fair compensation they deserve for their efforts in protecting the global environment. He warned that many such nations are on the brink of bankruptcy due to the exorbitant costs of climate adaptation and mounting debt. Furthermore, the former president called for the strengthening of police services and the fortification of the education system to combat extremism, which he identified as a significant internal threat. This interview, conducted in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), provides a comprehensive analysis of the strategic and environmental challenges facing the Maldives leading up to 2026.
