Political forces should cooperate in making the democratic system work: EU

The European Union has urged the political forces in the Maldives cooperate, in order to make the democratic system work.

“Without a consensus on how to proceed the country will be unable to deal with the political, economic and environmental challenges which will determine its future," reads the statement issued today by the spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Ashton also acknowledged the efforts of the Commonwealth to strengthen the Commission of National Inquiry, and appealed to all parties to refrain from any actions that could jeopardise completion of the Commission’s work, including legal action against political leaders.

She expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of political tension and violent protests in the Maldives.

The Commission of National Inquiry’s report has also been welcomed by the UN, Commonwealth, the US and the UK, who have urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and hold discussions to resolve the current political tension in the Maldives.