In a firm reaffirmation of his campaign promise to uphold the Maldives’ independence, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced today that the military agreements signed by the previous administration no longer pose a threat to the nation’s sovereignty.
Addressing journalists at a press conference held this afternoon, President Muizzu explained that his government had thoroughly reviewed all military-related pacts signed by the former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administration. The President made it clear that any provisions that had previously raised national security concerns have now been either amended or nullified.
“When we took office, we initiated a comprehensive review of all military agreements signed with foreign states. Today, I can confidently say there is nothing left in these agreements that threatens the independence or sovereignty of our nation,” Muizzu stated.
Among the most controversial arrangements was an agreement that permitted foreign military personnel to operate in the Maldives under the guise of conducting a hydrographic survey. This deal, widely criticized by the public and opposition figures alike—including then-Mayor Muizzu himself—had raised red flags over foreign troop presence on Maldivian soil.
President Muizzu revealed that this particular agreement has now been cancelled. “We are open to training opportunities for Maldivians to carry out such surveys in the future, but under no circumstance will we allow foreign military boots on the ground,” he declared. “It doesn’t matter how big or powerful the country is, or how much financial assistance they offer—Maldivian sovereignty is not up for compromise.”
The President emphasized that his administration remains committed to full transparency. However, he noted that some of the agreements forged by the previous government contain confidentiality clauses that restrict public disclosure. His government is currently engaged in diplomatic discussions to seek consent from the other signatory nations to make those documents public.
One of the cornerstones of President Muizzu’s presidential campaign was the promise to protect and restore national sovereignty. True to his word, on his first day in office, the President initiated the process to repatriate foreign military personnel based in the Maldives—marking a symbolic and strategic move to reclaim national control over defense and security matters.
This development signals a turning point in the nation’s foreign policy direction—one that prioritizes Maldivian autonomy over external influence. The President’s actions have been widely interpreted as a bold step towards reinforcing the Maldives’ identity as a free and independent island nation.
“We will remain friends with all,” the President said, “but under no condition will we become dependent on any.”
