Minister to be questioned over Masood's immigration criticism

The Parliament made a submission today to question Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel regarding the case where High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Masood Imad stated that Sri Lanka's immigration acted in an indifferent manner against Maldivians.

Maldives High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Masood Imad told Sri Lankan news organization "Daily News" that complaints regarding difficulties in obtaining visas have increased, with Sri Lanka's immigration acting in an indifferent manner against Maldivians, with him having criticized them as well.

South Galolhu MP and MDP member Meekail Naseem submitted the case to Parliament, stating that as a warning was given during the interview that the policy surrounding visas that are given out to Sri Lankan professionals working in Maldives will be changed, it is to be questioned whether the noble regulation regarding diplomacy and bilateral discussions be abandoned and whether it is best to form cracks in the relationship of a neighboring country.

Masood stated that even though Maldivians are in the long queue from 9:00am to 5:00pm at Sri Lankan immigration, certain people are prioritized in giving out visas.

As per Masood, an agent is required in order for easy visa procedures.

A long period of time goes by after a Maldivian applies for the visa themselves which can cause difficulties. Masood put forth the accusation that this is done as such due to agents providing financial benefits to immigration officials.

Masood stated that even though Maldivians used to travel to Sri Lanka for education and medical treatment, the number of Maldivians who go to Sri Lanka have gone down due to these issues. He also said there have been complaints that immigration officers yell at Maldivians at Sri Lanka's immigration office and communicate in disrespectful language.

Masood went on to say that if a solution to this issue is not found, the Maldivian government may deem it necessary to change visa regulation for the Sri Lankan workers numbering more than 30,000 in various Maldivian industries.