The Foreign Ministry has denied reports that the Maldives plans to establish a consulate in Bengaluru and that India plans to open a consulate in Addu City.

In a statement today, the ministry said reports published in some newspapers and on social media about the establishment of the two consulates were inaccurate.

The ministry said the government has not yet decided to establish a Maldivian foreign consulate in an island outside Male'.

The government believes such a decision should be made following extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders, the ministry said.

It also stressed the importance of publishing accurate and responsible information in newspapers and on social media to promote public awareness and social stability.