Commonwealth: Saddened by decision to leave, hope Maldives returns

Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland has said that the news of the decision to leave the Commonwealth by the Maldives was received with sadness and disappointment and hope that it is a temporary separation.

Statement announcing the decision to leave Commonwealth was read by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Asim said that it had been a difficult decision to make, but one which had been necessary in order to protect the independence and sovereignty of the country.

It accused Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) of unfairly singling out Maldives for unfair treatment, despite the situation in Maldives being judged to be considerably better by other international organizations compared to some other Commonwealth member countries.

In her statement, the Secretary General said that the Commonwealth family at large – it’s member governments and peoples share the sadness and disappointment at this decision.

And that the Commonwealth Charter reflects the commitment of our member states to democracy and human rights, development and growth, and diversity.

“Therefore, we hope that this will be a temporary separation and that Maldives will feel able to return to the Commonwealth family and all that it represents in due course.” Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland said.

Maldivian government said that Commonwealth had consistently attempted to interfere in domestic affairs of the country, including its justice system since 2012 – the year of former President Mohamed Nasheed’s controversial resignation.

The Maldivian government said it would continue strengthening ties with other international organizations and foreign countries which respect the independence and sovereignty of Maldives.