We welcome any initiatives under strong principles to further open up free trade opportunities: MDP

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has stated that it welcomes any effort carried out within robust principles to expand free trade opportunities in the Maldives.

In a press statement issued by the MDP, the party highlighted that foreign investors play a significant role in the development of the Maldives and noted that it always welcomes foreign investors.

The statement further said that the party continuously supports efforts aimed at strengthening the Maldivian economy and expanding the private sector.

However, the MDP noted that questions arise regarding the government's conduct in handing over a large portion of the Fushidhiggaru lagoon reclaimed at significant state expense under the guise of providing housing for citizens to Abu Dhabi’s Eagle Hills company.

In particular, the party described it as dangerous that the government is hesitating to disclose full details of the agreement when there are discrepancies between the information officially revealed by the company and the statements made by the government.

In connection with this, the MDP called on the government to immediately reveal all details to the public, including the responsibilities to be fulfilled by both parties under the agreement signed with Eagle Hills, financial obligations, financial concessions granted, and the duration of the agreement.

Additionally, the MDP requested clarification on whether the agreement contains any clause through which Maldivian land could be owned by foreigners or any provision that could lead to permanent foreign ownership of land in the future.

Stating that the government should not have the authority to formulate any policy that allows foreign ownership of Maldivian land, the MDP cited Article 4 of the Constitution, which specifies that all powers of the State originate from and remain with the citizens.

Therefore, the party urged the government not to carry out such transactions without the consent of the public, asserting that such major decisions should only be made through a public referendum.