MALE, 03 July 2021, (TON): Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has increased security measures at the High Commission of India and the Embassy of China situated in the Maldives.

According to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry “security measures were increased by MNDF due to threats to the Indian High Commission made on social media in addition to plans to protest in front of the Chinese Embassy, upon the request of both missions with the Ministry.

The Ministry detailed that the hostility towards diplomat missions had increased due to false articles and tweets publicized by the local media outlet ‘Dhiyares’ regarding both diplomatic missions. They also highlighted that they have been frequently noticing local media outlets publicizing false information regarding foreign diplomats, envoys and officials of the foreign missions.

The Ministry further stressed that such actions could strain the long-standing diplomatic relations established between the Maldives and other countries. Moreover, it would create hostility amongst local people towards friendly nations.

The Ministry added “Furthermore this would adversely affect the reputation of the Maldives in the international community in addition to business opportunities and tourism industry.”