EU Calls For Restraint In Maldives
European Union’s foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton has expressed her concern over the current political developments in the Maldives and in particular the violence which has accompanied demonstrations in the capital, Male. She called on all sides to show restraint and to work towards a peaceful and consensual solution to the political situation confronting the country. "Cooperation between the Presidency and Parliament should be restored as soon as possible," Ashton's spokesperson said in a statement, cited by EuAsiaNews. "Following the constitution of an inter-party committee of parliamentarians to resolve the current crisis, Ashton supports all efforts to find a solution between the Maldivians themselves, " it said . "All political actors in the Maldives should respect the constitution and due legal process, and contribute constructively to the consolidation of the country’s democratic institutions. The issues facing the Maldives must be speedily resolved, so as to preserve and strengthen the progress achieved to date, " it added.

MNDF Says Stepped up to Protect MPs
The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) after taking Yaameen Abdul Gayyoom, the leader of the People’s Alliance and the parliament vice speaker Ahmed Nazim to undisclosed location has said that they had given protection to some parliamentarians they say is threatened to their security. The MNDF said that they took the initiative after the senior level meeting concluded the situation in Male’ had gone violent. Today morning a warrant was issued from the Criminal Court to MNDF to bring Yaameen Abdul Gayyoom, his lawyer Azima Shukoor said. It was not clear how a warrant is needed to summon Yaameen to the court. The warrant may have issued from the court after Yaameen’s lawyer asked the court for the release of him in fear he may have been arrested. But the MNDF says he was taken to safe grounds for security. Earlier yesterday the Minister for Housing and Transport said that the government is seeking a court warrant to arrest Yaameen Abdul Gayyoom for corruption and hindering an independent institution although the courts rejected a police appeal for the arrest of Yaameen and Qasim Ibrahim they say needed to interrogate for corruption and breaching regulation to influence to an independent institution. Yaameen and Qasim were released from the house arrest lengthened by High Court that played down the Criminal Court warrant to house arrest the two MPs by Supreme Court. The Supreme Court ordered immediate release of Qasim and Yaameen after the 15 day suspension was over saying the police had not produced enough solid evidence to extend their house arrest for suspected charges.

Maldives Hosts Meeting for Forward Looking Climate Change Nations

The Maldives is hosting an innovative meeting of developing and rich world countries that want strong international action on climate change. The ‘Cartagena Group / Dialogue for Progressive Action’, is being held this Saturday and Sunday at Bandos Island resort, near the capital, Male’. A key aim of group is to bridge the divide left after the acrimonious Copenhagen Climate Change negotiations in December and bring like-minded countries together before next UN climate summit in Mexico. The Maldives’ meeting is the second such gathering of the Cartegena Group, which was established shortly after Copenhagen. It is an informal space open to all countries who want an ambitious outcome in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and who are committed, domestically, to becoming or remaining low carbon. In the keynote address on Saturday morning, President Nasheed noted that the forum includes countries from each region in the world. “It is the ability to come together as friends that is the great value of this Dialogue for Progressive Action,” he said. The President said that the “disappointments” of the Copenhagen Summit were a reflection of “global realpolitik,” in which nations prioritise perceived short-term economic gains over the long-term health of the world’s climate.  “I cannot accept that the Maldives must disappear, so others can carry on polluting,” President Nasheed said. Stressing the importance of establishing trust and cooperation, President said “deep divisions” obstructed progress at Copenhagen. The President said re-establishing confidence “must start in Cancun by reaching agreement across all core issues all core issues, especially the inter-related issues of mitigation, finance, and Monitoring, Reporting and Verification”. The President further challenged nations to change the way they present the issue of climate change action to their domestic electorates. “Cutting carbon should not be considered a burden that will destroy jobs and hamper economic growth. Instead, going green should be seen as the greatest economic opportunity since the Industrial Revolution,” he said. Countries participating at the Cartagena Group / Dialogue for Progressive Action include Antigua & Barbuda, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Ghana, Indonesia, Malawi, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Samoa, Spain, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Uruguay, UK and European Commission.

Coral reefs suffer mass bleaching
Coral reefs are suffering widespread damage in what is set to be one of the worst years ever for the delicate and beautiful habitats. The phenomenon, known as coral bleaching because the reefs turn bone white when the colourful algae that give the coral its colour and food is lost, has been reported throughout south east Asia, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. Divers and scientists have described huge areas of previously pristine reef being turned into barren white undersea landscapes off the coast of Thailand and Indonesia.

Maldives crisis: US calls for Int'l mediation
The United States has urged Maldives to accept international mediation in resolving the ongoing political crisis after violent protests in Male left at least 15 persons injured earlier this week. The statement from the US came even as the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Friday expressed concern about the rising political tensions in the

                 17 July 2010 | Saturday                 

Maldives Hosts Meeting for Forward Looking Climate Change Nations

The Maldives is hosting an innovative meeting of developing and rich world countries that want strong international action on climate change. The ‘Cartagena Group / Dialogue for Progressive Action’, is being held this Saturday and Sunday at Bandos Island resort, near the capital, Male’. A key aim of group is to bridge the divide left after the acrimonious Copenhagen Climate Change negotiations in December and bring like-minded countries together before next UN climate summit in Mexico. The Maldives’ meeting is the second such gathering of the Cartegena Group, which was established shortly after Copenhagen. It is an informal space open to all countries who want an ambitious outcome in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and who are committed, domestically, to becoming or remaining low carbon. In the keynote address on Saturday morning, President Nasheed noted that the forum includes countries from each region in the world. “It is the ability to come together as friends that is the great value of this Dialogue for Progressive Action,” he said. The President said that the “disappointments” of the Copenhagen Summit were a reflection of “global realpolitik,” in which nations prioritise perceived short-term economic gains over the long-term health of the world’s climate. “I cannot accept that the Maldives must disappear, so others can carry on polluting,” President Nasheed said. Stressing the importance of establishing trust and cooperation, President said “deep divisions” obstructed progress at Copenhagen. The President said re-establishing confidence “must start in Cancun by reaching agreement across all core issues all core issues, especially the inter-related issues of mitigation, finance, and Monitoring, Reporting and Verification”. The President further challenged nations to change the way they present the issue of climate change action to their domestic electorates. “Cutting carbon should not be considered a burden that will destroy jobs and hamper economic growth. Instead, going green should be seen as the greatest economic opportunity since the Industrial Revolution,” he said. Countries participating at the Cartagena Group / Dialogue for Progressive Action include Antigua & Barbuda, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Ghana, Indonesia, Malawi, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Samoa, Spain, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste and UK.

PG Office orders the leak of the audio clip, not its content
Prosecutor-General’s Office has ordered Maldives Police Service to investigate the leaking of audio clips of telephone conversations between opposition MPs. Miadhu Daily also understands that Prosecutor-General ordered the investigation not on order or pressure from any other individuals or institutions. PG Office also said that it is investigating the leakage because such recordings should be protected materials and should be treated with special care and that PG Office does not accept that such materials could be leaked. Police confirmed the investigation but refrained from commenting on the investigation. The clips were released when MP for Maamigili and JP Leader, Qasim Ibrahim and MP for Muli and PA Leader, Abdulla Yaameen was arrested on charges of bribery, corruption and treason. In addition to Yaameen and Qasim, clips also features voice believed to be MP for Dhiggaru and Deputy Speaker, Ahmed Nazim and MP for Kulhudhuffushi Dhekunu, Mohamed Nasheed. Telecom has said that only security forces have the capability to listen to telephone conversations. Police has confirmed that they do not have such capabilities. Many believe that they might be leaked by the government while President Nasheed has said that we should not believe that government is the only party which has technology to do so, in this technological age. Every one understands the audio clips are recorded and distributed by the Maldives Natinaional Defence Force. Since that people has lost faith on the government. Claiming that they have recorded for national security purpose and when they leaks the audiao in parts which they wanted, people are very angry with the government.

President Nasheed meets Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda

President Mohamed Nasheed has met with the visiting Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Dr Baldwin Spencer. The meeting was held at the President’s Office this morning today. President Nasheed thanked Prime Minister Spencer for accepting his invitation to visit the country. Although the two countries were geographically far apart, President Nasheed noted, the Maldives and Antigua and Barbuda shared many common interests, including addressing climate crisis. The two leaders also noted that climate change was an immediate issue that required urgent global action to address the problem, and agreed to work closely on the issue of climate change. They exchanged views on other regional and international issues, and emphasised the need to adopt common position in issues such as climate change. The two leaders also discussed ways to enhance bilateral ties in the time ahead. The Prime Minister commended President Nasheed for his work to create a global awareness on climate change.

Masked gang members entered MDP demonstration aiming to assassinate President (Reeko)
A group of masked gang members armed with swords crashed into Wednesday night’s MDP demonstration and attempted to assassinate President Mohamed Nasheed, MDP parliamentary group leader Moosa Manik, has said. ‘Last night, I saw with my own eyes a group of people trying to attack your president in the open,’ he said. President Nasheed was escorted from the area mid-speech by MNDF officers shortly after the disturbance. Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair has confirmed that an attack against the president was foiled Wednesday night. The US Embassy in Colombo also issued a statement, saying the US was “deeply concerned about rising tension resulting from the ongoing impasse between government and opposition parties in the Maldives.” “We call on all sides to refrain from violence and to come together to resolve disagreements through dialogue and compromise. We urge all parties to accept international offers of mediation. The United States has full confidence that the democratic process in the Maldives will allow for a peaceful resolution of these issues.” The meeting was held at a public place and more than 500 policeman was were there to look after the security, but non of them has sen suchmen entering the place, neither no one has reported such matter to the police, police confirms. Since people beleaives that this just a dialogue from the ruling party just to oil the situation keep burning.

US urges Maldives to accept foreign mediation
The United States on Saturday urged the Maldives to accept international offers of mediation to resolve a political crisis that has led to angry street demonstrations. A power struggle between President Mohamed Nasheed and the opposition-controlled parliament led to protests earlier in the week in which police said at least nine officers and six civilians were hurt. "We call on all sides to refrain from violence and to come together to resolve disagreements through dialogue," the US embassy in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo said. "We urge all parties to accept international offers of mediation," the statement added. Nasheed, who swept to power in the country's first democratic polls in 2008, has been locked in a power struggle with the opposition-controlled parliament, accusing it of stopping his administration from passing any legislation. The US embassy in Colombo handles US diplomatic relations with the Indian Ocean archipelago whose white sandy beaches and turquoise waters have made it an upmarket tourist destination. The statement did not specify which countries should carry out the mediation. But US Ambassador Patricia Butenis and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse have travelled to the Maldives in recent weeks for separate meetings to iron out the row in the nation of 330,000 Sunni Muslims. Their intervention prompted Nasheed to reappoint his 13-member cabinet last Tuesday, a week after they resigned en masse. Foreign minister Ahmed Shaheed said the nation of 1,200 islands was receptive to the idea of mediation. "As a fledgling democracy, we remain open to international facilitation," Shaheed told AFP by telephone from Male. Nasheed, who has become known globally for his calls for action to tackle rising sea levels that threaten to flood the low-lying archipelago, said in the Maldives on Saturday the country was going through a politically tough time. "Elements within the parliament are at loggerheads with the executive and this is stopping the country moving forward," Nasheed told a climate change conference. He added he hoped that "honesty, understanding and co-operation would unlock the domestic issues." Opposition parties have vowed to bring down the Nasheed administration, accusing him of incompetence. The US call for the Maldives to accept mediation came after the European Union and UN chief Ban Ki-moon on Friday urged the rival parties to cool rising tempers and to resolve their differences through dialogue. On Thursday, the main opposition Maldivian People's Party (DRP) said the government had created a breakdown in law-and-order. The upheaval spotlights the problems the Maldives is encountering in making the transition to multi-party rule after President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom governed the archipelago with an iron hand for three decades.

Second day of unrest in Maldives
Demonstrators were on the streets of Male, the Maldives capital, on Friday protesting the previous day’s arrest of the leader of the main opposition party, officials said. The Maldives National Defence Force took People’s Alliance party chief Abdullah Yameen Gayoom into custody on Thursday, claiming it was at his request and for his own protection. The Supreme Court recently ruled that Mr. Yameen should be released from the house arrest imposed on him while cooperating with the police on an enquiry into bribery and treason charges.

NZ attending international climate meeting
New Zealand would look for pragmatic solutions to climate change at an international meeting in the Maldives. International Climate Change Negotiations Minister Tim Groser is attending the meeting this weekend. The second meeting of the Cartagena Dialogue for Progressive Action would draw together a number of countries seeking a middle ground and consensus on climate change, he said. It would focus on how to progress the climate change negotiations during the remainder of 2010. "We're looking for practical and pragmatic solutions to addressing climate change," Mr Groser said.

                 16 July 2010 | Friday                 

UN Calls for Resolution of political differences through dialogue
United Nations has expressed concern over the violence related to demonstrations held yesterday in Male’, which has caused injuries to people and damage to property. UN also notes that the demonstrations and its subsequent events have further increased the volatility of the country’s political crisis. UN also welcomed government decision to ask the law enforcement agencies to investigate the violence, and take action against any individual or group who may be responsible. United Nations also calls upon all parties to resolve conflict through dialogue and to address the needs of the nation’s democratizing process. United Nations also expressed its readiness to assist in any way which the parties deem appropriate or necessary. Education Unit of the Central Province conducted a workshop in conjunction with EDC and LAEC. The workshop was specialized for teachers teaching environmental studies. The workshop was conducted from the 10th to the 13 of July 2010. 23 participants from 12 schools of the province participated in the workshop. The workshop which was funded by UNICEF was facilitated by 2 teacher educators of Centre for Continuing Education.

MDP Force attacks Speaker’s residence
During Wednesday night’s disturbances a group of ruling party, MDP Force has attacked the residence of Speaker Abdulla Shahid. Miadhu Daily understands that 4 windows were thrashed by the demonstrators, with stones. One of the brick has smashed the window and hit a man inside according to the onlookers. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Abdulla Shahid said that the demonstrators are fueled by the misinformation by government supporters and otherwise these incidences could have been avoided. He also particularly not that certain supporters of the government has encouraged to destroy properties of the opposition figures and such incitements needs to be immediately stopped. Abdulla Shahid’s residence has been a busy place lately if Male is engulfed in tension, and some of the members of MDP have encouraged fellow members to attack the residence.

Weekly Radio Address: Government to Continue Fight against Corruption
In his weekly radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed has said government is forced to do whatever possible to find a solution to stamp out corruption in the country. Referring to the mass demonstration in the streets of the capital on Thursday, the President said the protests showed that “many people were ready for direct action to show the level of their disapproval of corruption”. “Government, therefore, is forced to take swift measures, and do whatever possible to find a solution for corruption.” The President continued in his radio address that the political situation in the country was “murky” and several challenges were faced by the governance system. He confirmed that the government had given protection to some opposition figures after an assessment of the political situation in the country following disturbances in the streets of Male on Thursday. Last month, the entire Cabinet resigned calling on the President to investigate why certain MPs were working against the government, citing allegations of bribery within the Majlis. Since then, Maldives Police Service launched investigations of related allegations against MPs Abdulla Yameen, leader of the People’s Alliance party (PA) and former President Gayoom’s half brother, Gasim Ibrahim, head of the Jumhooree Party, and Ahmed Nazim, deputy leader of the PA. In his radio address, the President noted that the country was still a very young democracy and like any other young democracy it too was facing teething troubles. “We are confident of coming out of this situation. I see the big picture. I know the difficulty we are facing today. I am confident that we will be able to address the difficulties.”

Maldives atheist who felt persecuted 'hangs himself'
A man in the Indian Ocean island state of the Maldives has died, apparently by suicide, after complaining of being victimised for not being a Muslim. Ismail Mohamed Didi, 25, had admitted being an atheist and had sought political asylum abroad. He was found on Tuesday hanging at his workplace - the air traffic control tower at the international airport in the capital, Male.
It is compulsory for citizens of the Maldives to be Sunni Muslims. Despite the rigidity of its religious laws, the Maldives was recently elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council

Groser to visit Maldives for climate change talks
International Negotiations Climate Change Minister Tim Groser is to visit the Maldives this weekend to take part in an international climate change meeting. The second meeting of the Cartagena Dialogue for Progressive Action will draw together a number of countries seeking a middle ground and consensus on climate change. It will focus on how to progress the climate change negotiations during the remainder of 2010.

                 14 July 2010 | Wendesday                 

Government to recommend to MNBC board to rebrand the company and sell shares

The Cabinet has today decided to recommend to the Board of Directors of the Maldives National Broadcasting Corporation (MNBC) to rebrand the company and sell its shares to the public. The Cabinet underscored the necessity of securing funds in order to broaden the company’s services and increase its efficiency. The Cabinet noted that bringing the proposed reforms would increase the company’s efficiency, quality and profit. Maldives National Broadcasting Corporation was established on 22 December 2008 under Article 95 of Law no: 10/96 (Maldives Corporate Act). The company was established as a public service broadcaster, liable to its own debts, and as a 100 per cent government company.

Maldives In Brief : "We can topple this government,” warns Yamin
Arrested Parliamentarian Abdulla Yamin, who was set free Sunday by the Supreme Court has now said that the opposition alliance has the ability topple the Nasheed administration. Yamin told a joint opposition coalition rally that President Nasheed’s “present concern is opposition efforts to change the government, legally,” Miadhu reported. The coalition’s efforts have resulted in a revolution and the “past 10 days has seen nothing but dictatorship, undermining constitution” bringing the characters of opposition figures to disrepute. He alleged the government of selling public assets in a haphazard manner and also influencing the country’s judiciary.

World travel Awards names the crème de la crème
Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives have walked away with a number of key awards following the World Travel awards ceremony in Johannesburg on Wednesday. The ceremony played host to a wide range of industry professionals, government ministers and celebrities and covered the Africa and Indian Ocean region. Mauritius stole the show taking out the majority of awards for the Indian Ocean category.

Antony to visit Seychelles on July 17-18
EW DELHI: As part of the continuing overall strategy to provide military aid to Indian Ocean Region (IOR) countries and prevent China from further spreading its influence in the region, defence minister A K Antony will be visiting Seychelles on July 17-18. Antony, who will be leading a high-level delegation, will discuss ways to bolster defence cooperation between India and Seychelles during his two-day visit.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Names Willy Ribbe New Resort Mgr
Rangali Island, Maldives – The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is pleased to announce the appointment of Willy Ribbe as Resort Manager. Ribbe previously served as general manager of the Ritz-Carlton Doha, Sharq Village & Spa in Qatar for several years. Ribbe has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry and holds a prestigious background working across three continents: Europe, the Middle East and the United States. Beginning his career at Marriott Hotels in the food and beverage division as an Executive Chef, he transitioned straight to management positions at the Prague Marriott Hotel, Renaissance Prague Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments. He is fluent in English and German and married with two teenage daughters. “I am excited to contribute my knowledge"

                 13 July 2010 | Tuesday                 

President sends names of Cabinet members for Majlis consent

In accordance with Article 129 (d) of the Constitution, President Mohamed Nasheed has sent names of Cabinet members for the consent of the People’s Majlis. On 7 July President Nasheed reappointed all thirteen Cabinet members. Speaking to the media after the appointment of Cabinet, the President said he sees “no valid reason” why Majlis members should not give the cabinet Ministers their consent. Article 129 (d) says the President shall submit to the People’s Majlis, within seven days of making appointments to the Cabinet, the names of the appointees to the Cabinet for the consent of the People’s Majlis.

Government does not foresee any changes to the functioning of MNBC – Afeef

President’s Political Affairs Advisor Mr Hassan Afeef has said that the government did not foresee any changes to the functioning of the Maldives National Broadcasting Corporation (MNBC) after the inception of Maldives Broadcasting Corporation (MBC). People’s Majlis passed the Board of Directors of MBC which was created by the Maldives Broadcasting Corporation Act passed by the Majlis on 6th April 2010 and ratified by the President on 20th April 2010. Speaking to the press about the future of MNBC following the Majlis decision today, Mr Afeef said Voice of Maldives, Television Maldives, YouthTV and RajjeFM, their land and premises, broadcasting frequencies and employees belonged to MNBC. Noting that MBC was established by an Act of the People’s Majlis and Mr Afeef said the government would provide all the assistance to MBC. MNBC was established by a Presidential Decree on 22nd December 2008.

I will always be at peoples service, even if the government deprives all my wealth – Qasim
Qasim Ibrahim, leader of Jumhooree Party and MP for Maamigili has said that he will be at people’s service even if the government takes his entire fortune and wealth. Speaking at a joint rally by the opposition coalition, Qasim said “if President Nasheed wishes, he can take my wealth and I urge him to do it urgently. However, I will still be at the service of Maldives people”. “He can take my entire wealth. He can even take my outfits. But I will still be at the service of the people” Qasim said. Refering to a local proverb, Qasim also said that once you are lost at sea, naturally there would not be any further fear. “I have been there and done that. And I have no more fear” added the businessman turned politician. He also recalled that he had literally begged Maldivians to vote for Mohamed Nasheed in the presidential elections and had worked very hard to bring him into presidency. He also said that Dr. Hassan Saeed also has worked very hard to bring the current government and noted that without both men’s support, this government would have been impossible.

Opposition seeks parliament immunities case against President Nasheed
Parliament has decided to send a case against President Nasheed for disregarding parliamentarian’s immunities, to Parliamentary Committee on Privileges Immunities. The case was submitted by MP for Galolhu Dhekunu, Ahmed Mahloof. DRP Leader and MP for Kendhoo, Ahmed Thasmeen Ali proposed that the motion be submitted to the committee and was seconded by Ahmed Nazim, MP for Dhiggarru. Out of 73 MP present and voting 28 MPs voted against the motion. On the initial vote whether to pursue the motion, 33 voted in favour of accepting the motion while 17 voted against the motion. After the en masse resignation of the cabinet on 29 June 2010, President Nasheed has said that the cabinet resigned because of the lack of cooperation from the parliament. President Nasheed has also said that many of the MPs are proposing unconstitutional bills to the parliament, wasting its valuable time. Proposing the motion, Mahloof also said that since President Nasheed has disregarded privileges and immunities of the parliament, he is forced to submit the motion to the parliament floor. During the one hour debate on the motion one MP from each party and independent MP also spoke on the case.

DQP to go Supreme Court over appointing cabinet without parliament endorsement
Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP) has said that it will take the government to Supreme Court over appointment of cabinet without parliament approval. DQP seeks a Supreme Court ruling on the constitutionality of the new cabinet. Speaking in a press conference, Abdulla Ameen, Secretary-General of the party said that the new cabinet does not enjoy the support of the people either and is another reason seeking a Supreme Court ruling on the matter. Ameen also added that using government resources by ministers and visiting abroad in diplomatic passports would be corruption, for which it will file a separate case. Ameen also noted that today marks the constitutional deadline of 7 days after the sworn in ceremony, but was not send for parliament’s approval. Ameen also added that ministers has been arguing that they can be the ministers despite failing to get an endorsement from the parliament, simply for the sake of continuing to be in office. DQP also added that although President Nasheed seeks parliamentary approval for the cabinet, they will file the case anyhow, for the last week which DQP says the cabinet was “unconstitutional”. However, according to Constitution, President Nasheed will get 7 days to get the approval from the parliament after appointing the new cabinet. Previously DQP has saw “lack of cabinet” as a reason of “unconstitutionality”.

Allegations against independent commissions should not be baseless – Saleem
Ahmed Saleem, President of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives has said that the rules of procedure of the Commission is a very thorough document and has called on the members of the public to refrain from spreading baseless allegations against independent commissions. Saleem made the comments in an interview to Dhi TV. Saleem also said that the Commission was the first independent commission in the country and guidelines and institutional framework is in the Commission now. He also added that its rules of procedure and other documentation have been referred in preparing such documents for other independent commissions as well.

India Club hosts an exhibition entitled “Jyotirgamay – Towards Light”

An exhibition of paintings titled “Jyotirgamay – Towards Light” is currently on at the National Arts Gallery. The exhibition will continue till the 22nd of July 2010. The exhibition was inaugurated on 1st July 2010 as a curtain raiser to the INMAFF, (India Maldives Friendship Festival) that will continue up to 15th August 2010. The inaugural function was graced by the presence of the Honourable Vice President of the Republic of Maldives, the Honourable Speaker of the Majlis, the Honourable Indian High Commissioner and several other dignitaries.

                 12 July 2010 | Monday                 

Supreme Court orders the release of Yaameen and Qasim
Supreme Court has ordered the release of MP for Maamigili, Qasim Ibrahim and MP for Mulaku, Abdulla Yaameen. Supreme Court ordered the release of Qasim Ibrahim on the hearing of the appeal by Qasim Ibrahim, on the verdict by High Court to extend his house arrest for 15 days. Qasim’s hearing was concluded around 1745 hrs. Yaameen’s appeal case was held around 1900 hrs. Miadhu Daily understands that the appeal case was scheduled for today morning, however was delayed to afternoon. High Court’s orders to keep both MPs in detention for 15 days were issued last Monday. However, Police have also appealed the rulings by High Court, requesting that both Qasim and Yaameen should be detained in a detention facility. However, Supreme Court ruled that High Court’s ruling to keep the MPs under house arrest was not correct. Both Qasim and Yaameen have been denying the charges against them. Qasim has been maintaining that the charges and evidence against him were fabricated. Hassan Afeef, President’s Political Advisor has previously said that President Nasheed will accept Supreme Court rulings on the case.

Security forces and President Nasheed shall be within law – Yaameen
MP for Mulaku, Abdulla Yaameen has called on President Nasheed and security forces to act within the constitutional and legal framework of the Maldives. Abdulla Yaameen made the remarks speaking to press, after the Supreme Court ruling to release Abdulla Yaameen and Qasim Ibrahim from house arrest. Yaameen also added that Police has lodged a case based upon a letter indicating that he was offered bribery from Abdulla Yaameen. Yaameen also added that Police has not taken any statements from him. Yaameen also added that the Supreme Court ruling would send a message to the government and independent institutions of the country. Yaameen also said that President Nasheed would now know the magnitude of the task he is into, and how unsuccessful he is at the task. Yaameen also said that Supreme Court ruling indicates that President Nasheed’s actions have been unconstitutional. He also added that President Nasheed has been undermining constitution, parliament and independent institutions. Yaameen also said that he will lodge a defamation case against President Nasheed, for the inaccurate charges against him. “President Nasheed should not believe that all the bills he submits to the parliament would get through. But all those bills which would be beneficial for the Maldives people will be supported by the opposition” he said. Yaameen also added that it would have been better if President Nasheed’s phone call with him prior to Dr. Ahmed Shaheed’s no confidence vote was leaked, and would have given a good idea of who is into corruption and bribery. He also said that several of the corruptions by the government has been submitted to the Parliament and would begin investigation soon.

Government will be under heavy pressure when joint efforts of the colition begins – PA
Opposition People’s Alliance has said that when the joint efforts of the opposition coalition, DRP, PA, DQP and JP begin, government would be under heavy pressure. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Ahmed Shareef’ PA’s Secretary-General also said that four parties would work as a coalition both within and outside the parliament. Shareef also added that in addition to demonstrations and accountability within the parliament, coalition would try to make President Nasheed and government accountable in the courts. Shareef also said that if the government could not be made accountable, coalition will oust the government. He also added that opposition parties would not take the arrest of opposition MPs lightly and would not give way to government to do all it wants to do. He also noted that the opposition parties are not in the mood to back down. He also accused that government is intimidating the judges and MPs and called on the judges and MPs to stand against the intimidation. He also assured that the opposition parties are behind them and would not let the government have its way. Shareef also said that Ahmed Nazim, Qasim Ibrahim and Abdulla Yaameen was arrested without any legal basis and was arrested for political reasons.

MP Nasheed dares the government to take legal action on audio clip
Mohamed Nasheed, MP for Kulhudhuffushi Dhekunu has challenged the government to take legal action against him, if the government sees fit to take legal action against him because of the leaked telephone conversation between Nasheed and Qasim Ibrahim. “I know that some people have been calling for my arrest. I also understand that some of them wish to see me hanged. I urge the Police to investigate my case as well and lodge a case against me as well. Although the audio clip itself cannot be used as evidence in a Court, I know that what I write here can be. I have already confirmed receiving MRF 60,000 from Qasim Ibrahim, as a delay of an expected income from a sale of a safari boat has caused some financial difficulties.” Nasheed writes in his blog urging for action against him.

President reappoints Husnu Suood to Judicial Service Commission

President Mohamed Nasheed has reappointed Attorney General Husnu Suood to Judicial Service Commission (JSC). President Nasheed presented the letter of appointment to Suood this afternoon at a ceremony held at the President’s Office. Before the presentation of the letter of appointment, Uz Suood took the oath of membership of JSC. The oath was administered by Family Court Judge Hassan Saeed.

President Returns Bill Designating Capital Islands
President Mohamed Nasheed has returned the bill designating capital islands of Administrative Regions, to the People’s Majlis for reconsideration. In a letter to the Speaker of the People’s Majlis, President Nasheed said Attorney General had advised him the bill limited the freedom and power of the people to decide the capital island of their respective Administrative Region. Although article 5 of the bill provides for changing capital islands through a secret ballot among the people as recommended by atoll councils, the bill, by already specifying capital islands, limits people’s freedom and power to determine their capital islands. The President noted in his letter that capital islands were decided in the bill without consultation with and deliberation among the people, compromising the democratic process required for such a matter. The President said he believed that the people belonging to a respective administrative region must be completely free to decide their capital island.

UN Panel: contradictions all over
The three member panel of experts that has been appointed by the Secretary General of the United Nations Ban Ki-Moon on June 23 to advise himself on “accountability issues relating to alleged violations of International Human Rights and Humanitarian law, during the final stages of the war against the LTTE” has created somewhat a crisis situation in Sri Lanka, with Housing Minister and National Freedom Front leader Wimal Weerawansa starting a protest and a fast in front of the UN compound in Colombo last week. With the protest by the NFF on Tuesday taking a violent turn the UN has decided to temporarily close its Colombo office and to take UNDP regional office away from Sri Lanka. The reactions by the leaders of the Government to the UN Secretary General’s move to appoint a Panel on the issue and the counter reaction by the UN officials raise more questions than answers.

50 fishermen injured in 'attack' by Sri Lanka navy
Fifty fishermen from Tamil Nadu were injured when they were attacked allegedly by Sri Lankan Naval personnel while fishing off Katchathivu Island, Fisheries department officials on Sunday. The officials said the naval personnel in eight patrol boats intercepted about 200 fishermen in 130 boats off Katchathivu (an island ceded to Sri Lanka by India in 1974), assaulted them and took away their catch, their Global Positioning systems and batteries last night.

UN-Lanka ties hit rough patch
Die fasting if United Nations secretary general (UNSG), Ban Ki-moon did not dissolve the international panel of experts he set up in June to advise him on allegations of war crimes committed as the Lankan civil war came to a bloody end in May, 2009. The raucous protests outside the UN headquarters, located on a heavily-guarded and shaded road, began Tuesday. Fiery placards calling Ban various names were brandished; "three idiots" and other less savoury adjectives were used to describe the three-member panel.

                 11 July 2010 | Sunday                 

The Commonwealth Secretariat has said “stakeholders within Maldives themselves need to resolve” the country’s political crisis.
“We recognize that this is a situation which the stakeholders within Maldives themselves need to resolve and hope for an early resolution,” Commonwealth Secretariat Spokesperson Eduardo del Buey told the Asian Tribune. Buey also cited to the resignation of the cabinet which was later reinstated and also the arrest of senior opposition politicians. He said “the Secretary-General has been in touch with the President of Maldives about these developments.”

President and First Lady Watch Fund Raising Football Match For “Tiny Hearts”

President Mohamed Nasheed and First Lady Laila Ali attended a fund raising football event organised by Tiny Hearts of Maldives (THM). The event was held at Galolhu Grounds on Friday evening. Local celebrities, including male and female TV presenters, actors, and singers participated in the “Save a Tiny Heart” campaign aimed at raising funds for the heart surgeries of 20 children. “Tiny Hearts of Maldives”, is an NGO with the aim to provide information, professional knowledge and support to Maldivian parents on children’s heart health issues, with a particular emphasis on congenital heart conditions

President Nasheed stirred up political turmoil – Opposition
Opposition Coalition has said that President Nasheed purposely stirred up the political turmoil in the country. In a joint press conference opposition alliance consisting of Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Peoples Alliance (PA), Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP) and Jumhooree Party (JP), Ahmed Shareef, PA’s Secretary-General said President Nasheed purposely stirred up political tension in the country and is taking advantage of the crisis.

Qasim turned opposition because of government – opposition
Opposition Coalition has said that government’s arrogance has turned Qasim Ibrahim into opposition. Opposition coalition also noted that Qasim Ibrahim has previously worked as a bridge between the government and the opposition. However, lack of constitutional rule and lack of empathy for opposition has turned Qasim into opposition, coalition noted. At times Qasim had even defended the government according to opposition. Qasim also said that he had never attempted to destroy the government. He also said that even during his 22 day stint as the Home Minister, he have voiced within the government against the airport privatization. Qasim also said he opposed decentralization bill as it was unconstitutional and because it will not bring any benefit for the people. “Although it is done by government or any other party, if that’s dreadful for the country, I have to speak out and take action” Qasim noted. Qasim also said that charges against him were fabricated against him.

Indian mom attempts infanticide, tries to flush newborn baby in plane toilet on Turkmenistan Airline
n unmarried Indian woman gave birth in the bathroom of an airplane mid-flight and then tried to flush the baby down the toilet, police and doctors said on Thursday. Horror-struck crew members aboard the Turkmenistan Airlines flight made the gruesome discovery while cleaning the cabin after passengers got off the plane in the northern Indian city of Amritsar. According to CNN, the toilet, with the newborn inside, was rushed to a hospital and surgeons had to cut the toilet with a saw to get the baby out, said Varinder Kumar, the city's police commissioner. The baby is in critical condition. The mother, 25, was arrested at the airport. She was taken to the same hospital as the child, and police will question her once she is declared medically and mentally fit. In India, sex before marriage is still considered a taboo. "It looks like she wanted to get rid of the baby," H.P. Singh, a doctor at Amritsar's Fortis Escorts hospital told CNN. The mother flew from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, and she comes from Punjab's Hoshiarpur district in India.

Kashmir situation is internal Indian matter: US
The US on Saturday said the current situation in Kashmir was India's internal issue and asked protestors to conduct agitations in a peaceful manner. "We regret the loss of life in this incident. It is an internal Indian matter. We respect the efforts of the Government of India to investigate and resolve the current situation in Kashmir," said State Department spokesman Mark Toner, adding, US always encouraged India and Pakistan to resolve all its differences through dialogue. "In terms of the protest, we would just urge everyone to refrain from violence and conduct protest in a free and peaceful manner," Toner said in response to a question on the latest situation in the Kashmir valley. "We always support dialogue between India and Pakistan," Toner said when asked if Kashmir should be discussed between the two countries when their Foreign Ministers meet in Islamabad later this month. If so why Us is the first to get involved in the Maldives political crises?? These questions are to be answered. In Maldives there is no problem , which cannot be locally solved..

Indian Muslims not terrorists; says Obama's envoy to Muslim world
Washington: Tasked to improve ties with the Muslim world, a top official of the Obama Administration said that Indian Muslims are not terrorists, even as many of them are increasingly tired of being defined as such. "I talk about the bloggers that I meet in India who are tired of Muslims being defined as terrorists," Indian-origin Farah Pandith, the US Special Representative to the Muslim Community, said in a web video chat on Saturday.

                 10 July 2010 | Saturday                 

President Says Second Amendment Bill to Civil Service Act Constrains President’s Role in Making Appointments for Executive Administration
In his weekly radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed has said the second amendment bill to the Civil Service Act, which was passed on 22 June, unduly constrains the role of the President in making senior appointments for administration of the Executive branch. On Thursday, the President returned the bill to the Parliament for reconsideration of articles 13 and 17 Article 13 of the Civil Service Act states that the President, on recommendation of the parliament, shall appoint members to the commission by nominating people selected from among applicants. However, the amendment mandates the Majlis to receive applications for Civil Service Commission (CSC) membership and endorse candidates after a committee review.

Special Needs Act
The President also discussed the significance of the amended special needs bill which he signed into law Thursday. He noted that the new legislation protected fundamental rights of people with special needs, and discussed some of those rights, including the right to property, access to goods, facilities and services, employment, and education. According to the Act, a council to protect the rights of people with disabilities must be established within 30 days of enactment. The key objective of the Council would be to monitor the implementation of policies regarding people with disabilities. The Act also outlines principles and procedures in providing protection and financial assistance to people with special needs. The bill was first passed by the People’s Majlis on 21 December 2009. However, President Nasheed returned the bill to the People’s Majlis for reconsideration, stating that the bill contained articles that contradicted international standards and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Political situation
In his weekly radio address, the President also spoke on the efforts in bringing an amicable resolution to the current political crisis. Speaking on Sri Lankan President’s visit to the Maldives, the President said that the Sri Lanka President held talks with key stakeholders, including delegates from political parties, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, Chief Justice, and former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. He said the government and the opposition agreed, in the presence of President Rajapaksa, to constitute a committee of six members of the Majlis, comprising three members from the government and three from the opposition to carry forward a dialogue addressing such pressing issues as the smooth functioning of the legislative process. “I therefore hope this committee will soon be formed and speedily do the work,” he said.

A dive with the manta ray
Spot these elusive creatures in the Maldives, and even watch them do a ‘cyclone’ feeding dance. Manta rays are elusive, fascinating creatures—and manta sightings (watching their graceful, languid dance) can be a surreal, enthralling experience. Adventure travel firm The Life Aquatic with Lacadives is offering a chance to go manta spotting off the Maldives coast (near the protected Bay of Hanifaru and Baa Atoll Maldives) aboard its 30m triple-deck luxury liner in August. The boat has nine cabins, a large saloon with bar and a sun deck with a jacuzzi.

GMR-MAHB consortium wins Maldives Airport rehabilitation project
A consortium of India’s GMR Infrastructure and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad has successfully bid for the rehabilitation, expansion, modernisation, operation and maintenance of Male International Airport in the Maldives. The project attracted considerable interest from several of the world’s big hitters in airport development so what is so attractive about the Maldives?

                 09 July 2010 | Friday                 

                 08 July 2010 | Thursday                 

President Ratifies Special Needs Bill
President Mohamed Nasheed has ratified the bill on protecting the rights of people with special needs and providing financial assistance. The bill was passed by the Majlis on 22 June 2010. Following ratification, the bill was published in the Government Gazette. The Act stipulates principles and procedures in providing protection and financial assistance to people with special needs. According to the Act, a council to protect the rights of people with disabilities shall be established within 30 days of enactment. The key objective of the Council would be to monitor the implementation of policies regarding people with disabilities. The bill was first passed by the People’s Majlis on 21 December 2009. However, President Nasheed returned the bill to the People’s Majlis for reconsideration, stating that the bill contained articles that contradicted international standards and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

President of Sri Lanka concludes his visit to the Maldives

President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa has concluded his State visit to the Maldives, this morning. President Rajapaksa arrived in the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Nasheed. Before departure, President Nasheed and President Rajapaksa issued a joint press statement. The joint press statement reads as follows: His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka made a goodwill visit to the Maldives on Wednesday 7th July 2010. During his visit, the President of Sri Lanka met with His Excellency Mohamed Nasheed, President o the Maldives and Hon Ahmed Thasmeen Ali, Leader of the Opposition, the Chief Justice, the Hon Speaker of the Majlis and Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and a delegation of the MDP and delegation of the opposition consisting of the DRP, Qaumee Party, Jumhooree Party and the People’s Alliance. He also met with some leading members of the business community in the Maldives. President Rajapaksa engaged in this initiative as a friend and a neighbour of the Maldives who offered his assistance, in accordance with the wishes of the Government and the Opposition of the Maldives in initiating a dialogue to resolve the current crisis. The government and the opposition agreed, in the presence of President Rajapaksa, to constitute a committee of six members of the Majlis, comprising three members from the government and three from the opposition to commence and to carry forward a dialogue addressing such pressing issues as the appointment of the Cabinet of ministers and the smooth functioning of the legislative process. President Nasheed and senior government officials bade farewell to President Rajapaksa, at the Male’ International Airport.

Collapsed Administration to Boost Wary Investors Confidence
The Government of Maldives has made a statement to boost investors’ confidence as the country facing its worst political crisis as some investors wary of the situation in the country may stay away from Maldives. It said in president’s office website that the government of Maldives would like to inform all investors, businesses and traders involved in the Maldivian economy that we remain effective, functional and ready to provide you with all necessary services to ensure your businesses run as smoothly as possible. The government unable to venture to the dynamic trends of the global economy as the world recovering from the worst financial and economic downturn claims a center-right government whose cabinet resigned en masse at the end of last month said is committed to developing the economy through encouragement of private investments in which several controversy and heated debate followed when government began selling national assets in government privatization process. “This government is a centre-right government committed to developing a dynamic economy in the Maldives through encouraging private investments to flourish in the country. The government’s policies of expanding the economic base of the country, as well as to open hitherto closed sectors through a process of privatization and public private partnerships have now been endorsed and welcomed by investors and governments across the world,” the president’s office website said.

China's AgBank raises 10 billion dollars in Shanghai IPO
Agricultural Bank of China said on Wednesday it raised 68.5 billion yuan (10.1 billion US dollars) from the Shanghai portion of its initial public offering. The amount included the overallotment option and put the bank on track to achieve the largest IPO on record by raising up to 22.1 billion dollars ahead of its dual listing in Hong Kong and Shanghai, the bank said in a statement to the Shanghai Stock Exchange. AgBank, the last of China's four big banks to list, said it sold 25.57 billion shares in Shanghai, including the overallotment option, at 2.68 yuan a share, the top of a 2.52-2.68 yuan indicative price range.

U.N. food panel issues new standards
Geneva, Switzerland (UPI) Jul 7, 2010 - The U.N. food standards panel set new limits for the presence of melamine in food, baby formula and animal feed during its conference in Switzerland. The maximum amount of toxic chemical allowed in baby formula was set at 1 milligram per kilogram, and 2.5 milligrams per kilogram of other food and animal feed, the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization said Tuesday in a joint statement. Melamine is a chemical used many industrial processes, including the manufacture of plastics used for dishes, kitchenware and can coatings. Traces of it ending up unavoidably in food don't cause health problems, but the substance is toxic at high concentrations, health officials said. "Establishment of maximum levels will help governments differentiate between low levels of unavoidable melamine occurrence that do not cause health problems, and deliberate adulteration -- thereby protecting public health without unnecessary impediments to international trade," said Martijn Weijtens, chairman of the U.N. Codex Alimentarius Commission's committee on contaminants in foods. While not legally binding, the new levels give countries the authority to refuse to allow importation of products with high levels of melamine, the WHO and FAO said. The U.N. Codex Alimentarius Commission, meeting in Geneva, also developed new hygienic measures for safer fresh salads and seafood, offering guidance in areas such as production, harvesting, packing, processing, storage, distribution, marketing and consumer education. The commission also published specific advice on controlling bacteria in seafood throughout the food chain, which commission officials said will help to minimize risks. The Codex Alimentarius (Latin for "food code") Commission also adopted measures on sampling food for inspection and control analysis.

Marine Scientists Return With Rare Creatures From The Deep

Scientists have just returned from a voyage with samples of rare animals and more than 10 possible new species in a trip which they say has revolutionised their thinking about deep-sea life in the Atlantic Ocean. One group of creatures they observed - and captured - during their six weeks in the Atlantic aboard the RRS James Cook is believed to be close to the missing evolutionary link between backboned and invertebrate animals.

                 07 July 2010 | Wednesday                 

Maldives cabinet reinstated

President Mohamed Nasheed is to reinstate his resigned cabinet once again, his press secretary Mohamed Zuhair has said. He said president met with the cabinet whole and held separate meetings with the resigned members of his cabinet individually. He said the decision to reinstate the same cabinet was to make it easy for the parliament for they are approved by the parliament though some opposition party representing the People’s Majlis stepped to make a vote of no confidence against Education Minister Dr. Musth’fa Luth’ufy. The Kulhudhuffushi Constituency representing member in the parliament in his blog has said they were also discussing to go for a motion against Finance Minster Ali Hashim and the Civil Aviation Minister Mahmood Razi. President’s Office said that the reconvening of the cabinet came with the help of visiting Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse and the mediation of American High Commissioner who were ready to simmer down the political tension in the country. Zuhair said the Sri Lankan President met with the largest opposition icon leader and former president Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom. Rajapakse may have persuaded Gayyoom to accept his party MPs to support reconvening the resigned cabinet who quit government complaining the parliament obstructing government initiatives. The people’s Alliance, whose leader is held up by Maldives Police just after the cabinet resignation with Republican Leader Qasim Ibrahim on alleged treason and corruption charges they denied, Yaameen Abdul Gayyoom’s Party, said that they will not approve the same cabinet. Zuhair said the PA only has 7 seats in the uncanny 77 parliament while Sri Lankan President was in mediation with the largest Opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party. He said President is hopeful his same cabinet will be approved once again at the parliament which was cancelled for the third day due to disruption from hawkish members.

Maldives can count on Sri Lanka’s friendship and goodwill – President Rajapaksa

President Mohamed Nasheed has today hosted a luncheon in honour of the visiting President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa. Speaking at the luncheon, Rajapaksa reaffirmed the “friendship and goodwill” of Sri Lanka people towards the people of Maldives. He also said the relations between the two countries, in times good and bad, had strengthened and that the excellent people-to-people contact has been “a strong foundation” of close bilateral ties. In his remarks, President Nasheed too highlighted the historical relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka. He noted the many similarities between the two peoples and said the Maldives “will always stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Sri Lanka”. He said: “It doesn’t matter who is in government of the Maldives or who is in government in Sri Lanka. We are same people and we will stand together and we will stay together”. Speaking on the political situation in the Maldives, President said he held discussions with political parties on the issue and announced that he would appoint a cabinet later today.

President Nasheed meets his Sri Lankan counterpart

President Mohamed Nasheed met with the visiting President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa. The meeting was held at the President’s Office this morning today. The two leaders discussed ways to enhance the existing close friendly relations between the two countries. They also explored new areas for bilateral and development cooperation. They also exchanged views on the on going political situation in the Maldives and ways to resolve the issue. President Nasheed thanked President Rajapaksa for accepting his invitation to visit the country, especially at a time when the country was facing political problems. President Rajapaksa said Sri Lanka viewed, “as a friend”, and it was a “duty” to assist the Maldives in everyway possible.

President of Sri Lanka arrives in the Maldives on a State Visit

At the invitation of President Mohamed Nasheed, the President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa has arrived in the Maldives this morning. He was greeted on arrival at Male’ International Airport by Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed. Later, on his arrival at Malé Official Jetty, President Rajapaksa was greeted by President Mohamed Nasheed. A bugle call was sounded on President Rajapaksa arrival, after which President Nasheed accompanied the visiting President to the saluting dais, where the national anthems Maldives and Sri Lanka were played. The visiting President was then given a 7-Gun Salute. President Rajapaksa then proceeded to inspect a guard of honour. President Rajapaksa will meet President Nasheed later today.

Maldives to import sand from Bangladesh
The Maldives is keen on importing standard sand from Bangladesh for construction. The Maldives high commissioner to Bangladesh Ahmed Sareer expressed its eagerness at a meeting with shipping minister Shahjahan Khan at the Secretariat on Tuesday. The shipping minister assured Sareer of providing assistance and requested the Madivian government to recruit more workers from Bangladesh. They discussed bilateral issues of interest between the two South Asian countries and the harmful impact of global climate change. Shipping ministry's acting secretary Abdul Mannan Hawladar was present in the meeting.

Rajapaksa in Maldives to mediate, New Delhi watching
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa is reaching Maldives early on Wednesday ( today) to mediate between counterpart Mohamed Nasheed and a sulking opposition to resolve the ongoing political deadlock. Nasheed’s cabinet comprising 13 ministers resigned en masse last week citing problems with the 77-member opposition-controlled Majlis (Parliament). Legislative and executive powers are separated in Maldives. Since the resignations, the government has accused the opposition of attempting to bribe independent MPs. Sources told the Hindustan Times that Rajapaksa was slated to meet Nasheed Wednesday morning to reach a ``political and practical compromise’’ and ensure that the 20-month old government survived. Nasheed’s government is the first one to be democratically elected in Maldives, a country of 1192 islands, though his party, Maldivian Democratic Party doesn’t enjoy a majority in Parliament. Rajapaksa’s visit was unplanned, diplomatic sources in Male told HT, adding his foreign minister, GL Peiris, was already in capital Male. New Delhi, it was learnt, is closely monitoring the situation. ``The way to resolve the deadlock is statesmanship,’’ a diplomat said. Mr. Rajapakse has already told Pressident Nasheed that he can use the earlier cabinet , although they have resigned, since once Majlis has approved them once Opposition. Political parties says if that is so President Nasheed also no no need to stand for 2013 election since people has approved him in 2008 Presidential election.

Green Globe Certification appoints accredited auditor for Sri Lanka and Maldives Islands
Green Globe Certification continues to build and develop its global presence with the appointment of STING Consultant’s CEO Ruchi Gunewardene, as its accredited auditor for Sri Lanka and Maldives Islands. Guido Bauer, CEO of Green Globe Certification, said, “Our certification is an independent recognition of businesses’ and communities’ sustainable achievements. The methodology we use benchmarks environmental activities and documents corporate social responsibility activities against Green Globe’s international standard." The appointment of STING Consultant’s CEO Ruchi Gunewardene provides professional and cost-effective auditing services to Green Globe clients in these countries, as well as delivery of related sustainability services," Mr. Bauer added.

                 06 July 2010 | Tuesday                 

Supreme Court Delays Appeal by Qasim and Yaameen’s Lawyers

The Supreme Court has delayed the hearing of the appeal brought against the allegations and their arrest minutes after the resignation of President Mohamed Nasheed’s cabinet last week. The court said the scheduled hearing is delayed until Monday but did not give any details why the court delayed the hearing. The appeal to the Supreme Court came after the high court extended the house arrest of Qasim Ibrahim and Yaameen Abdul Gayyoom. The High Court made the ruling after police appealed against the Criminal Court ruling for the two MPs house arrest for three days. The High Court extended the arrest until July 15 while police argued the two MPs house arrest may risk the evidence as they already suspect them of bribery although the main reason they said was trying to topple government. President’s resigned cabinet and president himself blamed these MPs and oppositions blocking government implementations at the parliament by bribing other members although the parliament majority is in the hands of a coalition of Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party and People’s Alliance. Qasim is the leader of the Jumhooree (Republican) Party. The Supreme Court said the hearing for the appeal by the defendants will be held on Monday, tomorrow afternoon. The appeal by the two defends were against the high court ruling to hold them in captive for what the MPs say for political purpose.

MDP MPs Obstruct Session Dispersed Parliament

Parliament unable to continue with its mandate and responsibilities due to some ruling Maldivian Democratic Party continued to intervene by taking point of order dispersed today announcing to seek solution to spat between the ruling coalition and opposition members. The parliament administration few minutes later said the speaker was in discussion with MPs representing the parties in the so called Peoples’ Council, the parliament. Dispersing the session after MDP MPs outrageous attempts to discontinue lucrative time the speaker said the unnecessary waste of time without responsible and constructive discussion he is forced to stop the session and seek party cooperation. He said he will talk to the political parties and would find solution. Just after the parliament began in full session some activists gathered near the parliament house where such protest is not allowed has broken the calmness in the area with raised shouting. The media present at the time reported a disturbance in the area forcing police to remove two from the crowd. With several agendas necessary to move the country ahead to proper democracy, the parliament unable to tackle uncanny behavior by the so called people’s representatives claiming party spirit, ended without any progress.

EU worried about Maldives as stalemate continues
A worried European Parliament (EP) has said the ongoing political crisis in Maldives could have a negative impact on the country’s economic development. Maldives which is already fighting a heavy budget deficit and alarming coastal erosion in several of its 1192 islands now has to fight political uncertainty after its national cabinet resigned en mass on Tuesday citing problems with the opposition-controlled Majlis (Parliament). The deadlock continued on Friday. ``…we are therefore particularly concerned at the recent events that have led to the resignation of the Cabinet. We believe that such political instability could have a crucial impact on the social, economic and tourism development of the country, which needs stability in order to capitalise on its location,’’ the EP said in a statement.

Link Legal advises Maldives int'l airport project contract for GMR
Link Legal has advised a GMR-Malaysia Airports consortium on winning the contract to build and expand the Male Maldives airport for around $300m (Rs 1,390 crore). Link Legal managing partner Atul Sharma and partner Anand Srivastava led the GMR team.

Maldives plunges into power struggle
Maldivian Cabinet ministers have resigned en masse over a stalemate with the country's parliament dominated by opponents of President Mohamed Nasheed. Junior transport and environment minister Abdulla Shahid told CNN that the legislature and the executive of the Indian Ocean island nation were now caught in a "political deadlock." No talks have taken place since the cabinet resigned on Tuesday, he said.

Visa changes to enhance superyacht stays in Maldives
Asia Pacific Superyachts Maldives Branch was established by Mohamed Hameed, based on his 15 years of experience in the Marine industry. The General Manager is happy to share ‘good news’ for yachts returning to the Maldives or interested in a holiday exploring the area. The Maldives region has proven to be a Superyacht vacation paradise and one of the best travel destinations in the world. Now it’s even easier and less costly for yachts – now you can get 90 day stay, unlike previous regulations. The duration of the stay allowed in Maldives for yachts and other tourist vessels remains the same - however, the big change is that every tourist will receive a 30 day visa on arrival and the visa can be extended for another 60 days, before expiry of the first 30 days. This is effective with the original passport and recent passport size photograph submittal and fee for the extension period of 60 days. Basically, this means every tourist can stay 90 days under the new visa changes in the Maldives, per entry; and now the yachts/tourist vessels also will receive the same changes and receive a total 90 days per entry. This is ‘good news’ for those planning or thinking about heading to the Maldives.

Malheur des Maldives
IN OCTOBER 2008, a small chain of atolls in the Indian Ocean entered the world's club of democracies. It had been a long time coming. The incoming government hailed a different kind of politics as its supporters lined up along the sea wall, celebrating the country’s new dawn. But in recent months the Maldives’ fledgling democracy has proved to be self-incapacitating more than progressive. Fed up with an opposition-led parliament, which tends to block its every move, this week the archipelago’s entire cabinet resigned in protest. Political deadlock has ensued.

                 05 July 2010 | Monday                 

The US celebrate 4th of July in the Maldives

Embassy of the United States of America has held a special function to celebrate the 234th anniversary of America’s independence in the Maldives. Speaking at the function, held at the Holiday Inn hotel this afternoon, President Mohamed Nasheed said we commemorated the US Independence Day as a day when people understood that democracy was the best form of governance. Noting that “no people have been able to experiment and make that system a reality than the American people”, the President congratulated the people of America. The President told the international community that the first democratic government of this country was elected to consolidate democracy. He said the government was “not elected simply just to be in the government.” “The people have categorically asked us [to] establish and implement democracy in this country.” He further said that to consolidate democracy “we have to rid this country of corruption, human rights abuse and all the other illnesses of the society.” Referring to the current political situation and the reasons for the resignation of the entire cabinet on Tuesday, the President said the Maldives now faced “one of the biggest challenges this nation has ever faced.” In his remarks the President expressed his hope that the situation would be resolved soon through dialogue. He said “there is no best cause of action than dialogue.” The President assured the international community and the people of the Maldives that the government “will adhere to rule of law. We will follow the book and we will not do anything that is illegal or not prescribed by law.” Speaking at the function, US Ambassador Patricia Butenis said the Maldives’ path to democracy in many ways resembled that of America’s. “You too, much like us, have been working to strengthen your democracy and ensure that your government reflects the will and interests of the people”, Ambassador Butenis said.

President meets with US Ambassador

President Mohamed Nasheed today met with the United States Ambassador to the Maldives, Ms Patricia A. Butenis. The meeting was held this morning at the President’s Office. The President thanked the Ambassador for hosting a July 4th celebration in the Maldives and said it indicated the growing ties between the two countries. The President also briefed the Ambassador on the current political situation of the Maldives and discussed ways to overcome the democratic challenges faced by the government.

UN Press Statement

EU Statement