Main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and religiously conservative Adhaalath Party on Monday declared that the decision of the Maldives' government to severe diplomatic ties with Qatar is “disastrous” to the nation.
In separate statements released by both parties, they highlighted various reasons as to why the Maldives may become destitute due to the decision.
Adhaalath Party stated that, at a time when much aid are provided to the Maldives in various sectors by Qatar, it is a thoughtless decision by the government of President Abdulla Yameen to severe ties with Qatar.
Noting that the balanced diplomatic policy used by the Maldives so far has been demolished by the current regime, Adhaalath expressed concern and fear that the decision would pave more distance and turmoil among Islamic countries.
Meanwhile, MDP claimed that severing 33 years of diplomatic relations with Qatar would directly and indirectly influence the economy and tourism of the Maldives.
Qatar Airways operate daily flights to the Maldives, carrying several high class tourists to the archipelago. However, following the nation's decision to cut ties with Qatar, it is yet unclear what may happen to the flights.
Both parties have also expressed concern that the Maldives may be ostracised for meddling in matters between powerful states.
Meanwhile, the government of the Maldives has declared that there was no undue external influence in its decision to severe diplomatic relations with Qatar and the island nation will continue to maintain trade relations with the Middle-east state.
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Libya and Egypt announced early Monday that the five countries have completely cut ties with Qatar after years of tension with the state. The Gulf nations and Egypt have also kicked Qatar out of their military coalition.
They have accused Qatar of working to wreak uproar and dispute in the Middle-east, declaring that Qatar is backing terrorist organisations including the Muslim Brotherhood and Iran-backed rebels. Meanwhile, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia which has been fighting the rebel organisation Houthi in Yemen for over two years has separately announced Qatar’s expulsion from the coalition.
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