Maldives played key role in defending Palestine: Minister Khaleel

Maldives has played a significant role in the international movement defending Palestinians in Gaza, Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel said in parliament.

Summoned to answer a question from opposition MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, Khaleel said the government had aligned its foreign policy with the wishes of the Maldivian people.

“The result is that the international community recognizes Maldives as one of the strongest advocates for the Palestinian cause, no matter how small our nation,” he said.

Khaleel said the government’s decision to ban Israeli passport holders from entering the country, was a move that had won praise across the Islamic community.

“The whole movement was actually led by the Maldives at the request of our people,” he said.

The Minister added that the policy had inspired other states to speak out in defence of Palestinians in Gaza.

Some had warned that the ban could harm Maldives, but Minister Khaleel said it had strengthened ties with Islamic nations.

He said that it has led to an increase in tourists from Arab countries to the Maldives as well.