VP: Leaving Commonwealth would have a negative impact on economy

Vice President Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed has said that leaving the Commonwealth would affect the youth, the women, and have a negative impact on the whole economy.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Dr Jameel said that being “angry” with the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) and hence deciding to leave the Commonwealth would be a “mistake on the part of the government”.

Dr Jameel’s statement follows a recent request by President Abdulla Yamen from the parliament, for advice on the issue of withdrawal from Commonwealth membership.

As an example, the Vice President said that the Commonwealth provides assistance for maritime security operations – a matter of importance for a country like the Maldives.

Urging MPs to ensure that Maldives remains a member of the Commonwealth, he said that in order to ensure economic progress and security, Maldives needs to maintain close ties with India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Singapore, Malaysia, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Dr Jameel also highlighted the assistance received from Commonwealth in terms of human resources development, another important area for a small developing country.

He said that CMAG has not taken action against Maldives thus far as a result of the efforts by Minister of Foreign Affairs Dunya Maumoon.

He further said that former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom weighed the benefits and detriments when he decided that Maldives should become a member of the Commonwealth back in 1985.

It was a mistake to not participate in the Commonwealth after gaining independence in 1965, Dr Jameel said; and with the 50th Independence Day fast approaching, he advised everyone involved to not repeat the same mistake.