Maldives rebukes EU for adopting sanctions resolution

The Maldives government Friday rebuked the European Union's for adopting sanctions resolution on Maldives describing it "inappropriate" and "irresponsible."

European Parliament passed a resolution Thursday condemning the human rights abuses of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, and calling for targeted sanctions to be imposed on his officials and supporters in the business community.

Local media reports quoting the Maldives government said that the resolution contains a number of inaccuracies, misrepresentations and baseless allegations.

"It is quite inappropriate and indeed irresponsible for an institution such as the European parliament calling for the release of detainees and prisoners who have committed serious criminal offences and publicly admitted having committed that offences," the government said.

"Democracy will be consolidated by upholding and by encouraging to uphold the rule of law."

The Maldives government, however, assured the EU that it would continue to work closely with the organization.

"The government takes note of the statement given by the European External Action Service (EEAS) at the European parliament, and agrees that the way forward is working closely on issues of mutual concern," the government said. Endit