The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that the Maldives did not participate in the China-Indian Ocean Forum on Development Cooperation.
In a statement, the foreign ministry stated it is aware of the joint press statement released by the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) alleging the participation of the Maldives in the China-Indian Ocean Forum held on November 21. The ministry, however, clarified that the government of the Maldives did not participate in the forum, and communicated its decision not to participate to the Embassy of China to the Maldives on November 15. It further stated that participation by individuals or groups of individuals from the Maldives does not constitute official representation by the government of Maldives.
In accordance with Article 115(J) of the Constitution of the Maldives, only the serving president may determine, conduct and oversee the foreign policy of the country, and conduct political relations with foreign nations and international organisations. Official accreditation to meetings, forums, and conferences to represent the Maldives, as per international practice, will only take place through diplomatic channels. Therefore, the ministry stated that there was no official representation by the Government of the Maldives for this specific meeting.