24 February 2013, Male'
In response to media queries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to make the following statement:
" The Government of Maldives wishes to emphasise that it did not struck a "deal" with anyone regarding former President Mohamed Nasheed's exit from the Chancery of the Indian High Commission in Male', yesterday. Most importantly, Mr. Nasheed's exit from the High Commission was not negotiated with the Government. Mr. Nasheed went in to the High Commission on 13 February 2013 seeking India's ‘assistance', and his continued stay and his decision to leave the High Commission was an issue between himself and the Indian High Commission. The Government of Maldives's only involvement in the issue was in the implementation of the Court Order on the Police to produce Mr. Nasheed to the Court. The said Court Order expired on Wednesday, 20 February 2013.
The Government of Maldives also wishes to reiterate its clear and firm position that it cannot, and will not, negotiate the charges laid against Mr. Nasheed for unlawfully arresting a judge during his Presidential tenure, in January 2012. The charges are laid by the Prosecutor General which is an independent institution under the Constitution of Maldives. The Government has made this position clear to all of its external friends, including India.
Upholding the rule of law and respecting the independence of the three arms of the State are a fundamental pillar of President Dr. Mohamed Waheed's Administration.
The Government now hopes that, with the decision of Mr. Nasheed to leave the Chancery, the High Commission, would now be able to resume its normal diplomatic and consular work in the Maldives.
Ends.