UK concerned over Maldives crisis but was never concerned when Mr. Nasheed broke the Maldives constitution

UK has raised concern following the arrest of former President Mohamed Nasheed and his subsequent release.

Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt said: "The British government is monitoring the situation in the Maldives with concern following the arrest and subsequent release of former President Nasheed. Along with our international partners, we call on the Maldivian authorities to ensure any trial is fair and transparent.

"These latest developments underline the need for all parties to resume dialogue and work together to implement the democratic reforms identified by the Commission of National Inquiry in August", Burt said.

"We look forward to peaceful, free and fair elections next year, in which all political parties are able to participate fully".

Meanwhile, a statement by the spokesperson of High Representative Catherine Ashton on the arrest of former President Nasheed was issued yesterday by the European Union.

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign

Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, stated that it is with great concern that the High Representative learned about the arrest of former president Nasheed of the Maldives yesterday.

The statement said that she is following developments in the Maldives closely and recalls the assurances given by the Government of the Maldives as regards the personal safety of Nasheed and his right to a fair trial.

In view of the importance of the next presidential elections, the High Representative reiterated the need for credible and transparent elections allowing for the full participation of party candidates.

The High Representative called upon all sides in the Maldives to refrain from creating further tension and urges all parties to pursue political dialogue.