Harmful media coverage on foreign ties is an attack on the nation: Khaleel

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has called on media outlets to refrain from phrasing their reports in a way that could harm diplomatic relations with other nations. He described such reporting as an attack against the nation.

Speaking at an event held last night to launch State TV PSM's documentary 'Minivan Dhivehi Raajje', Minister Khaleel asserted that there are several factors that media must bear in mind when reporting events and news.

Khaleel said that in the instance that stating something may harm Maldives' sovereignty, then it must be left unsaid.

However, during his time in the administration, he has seen media report information that negatively affect relations with other countries, he said.

Khaleel said that such reporting should not be practised by anyone, stating it is akin to an attack on the nation.

"When things like this are done, interest that many hold in the Maldives dwindles. This shouldn't be done. This is akin to hitting your foot with an axe in your own hand," he stated.

Khaleel said that in representing the Maldives abroad, Maldivians should always try to emphasize the positives. He said that there have been instances where Maldivians have gone abroad and spread false information, causing harm to the country.

Khaleel questioned whether those who act this way outside of leadership genuinely love the nation.

Khaleel asserted that patriotism starts with oneself.