US: Maldives faces judicial independence challenges

The United States has applauded the Maldives for its accomplishments in relation to democracy, but said that the country still faces challenges such as judicial independence and instances of politically-motivated threats.

This came in a statement by US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Nisha Biswal, upon conclusion of her visit to the Maldives.

The statement reads, “In recent years, Maldives has shown the world how much a young democracy can accomplish. It has assumed leadership positions on international issues at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva and as Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States. We applaud those efforts. Nonetheless, challenges such as judicial independence and instances of politically-motivated threats still remain here. The United States remains committed to supporting Maldives as it works to consolidate the independence of its core governing institutions and establish democratic norms that respond to the will of its people.

“The United States continues to support the economic progress that has made Maldives a middle-income country. Following the first-ever Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) meeting in October, the United States looks forward to broadening and deepening trade with Maldives. U.S. business investment can help further economic growth, and the U.S. government will continue to work with the government and people of Maldives to build upon the economic gains already made.”

Biswal also commended the Maldivian government for its response efforts, and the people of Maldives for their patience and cooperation during the recent water crisis in Male’, and assured that the US will continue to work with the government of Maldives on long-term water production and distribution assessments, and to develop rain-water catchment and desalinization projects to ensure supply of clean drinking water.