The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has condemned the Maldivian government’s decision to cut ties with Qatar.

In a statement after the government’s announcement of its decision on Monday, MDP described the move as reckless and one that compromises Maldives’ international standing.  

“The break in diplomatic relations will likely hit the Maldives hard, with Maldivian businesses and businesspersons finding it difficult to trade with and visit Qatar. Any changes in air travel services between Qatar and the Maldives as a result of this move will cause huge disruption to the tourism sector” the statement said. 

The MDP said that the Qatari people have always been generous towards Maldivians and has made immense contributions to their socio-economic development. 

“Similar to his decision to break ties with Iran and in leaving the Commonwealth in 2016, President Yameen’s decision to break 33 years’ of diplomatic ties with Qatar was taken unilaterally, without any regard for Maldivian public interest or opinion. The MDP is deeply concerned by President Yameen’s reckless foreign policy decisions, which appear to be increasingly dictated by Riyadh” the statement further said. 

The government’s announcement came hours after Saudi Arabia and several other Arab nations severed ties with Qatar, claiming that the nation’s policies fuel terrorism and radical ideologies.