Maldives rebukes EU for adopting sanctions resolution

The Maldives government on Friday criticised the European Union for adopting a resolution seeking imposition of sanctions on the country and described the action as "inappropriate" and "irresponsible".

European Parliament on Thursday passed a resolution condemning, what it called, "the human rights abuses" committed by President Abdulla Yameen, and calling for targeted sanctions to be imposed on his officials and supporters in the business community, Xinhua reported.

Media reports citing the Maldives government said the resolution contains a number of inaccuracies, misrepresentations and baseless allegations.

"It is quite inappropriate and indeed irresponsible for an institution such as the European parliament calling for the release of detainees and prisoners who have committed serious criminal offences and publicly admitted having committed those offences," the government said.

"Democracy will be consolidated by upholding and by encouraging to uphold the rule of law."

The Maldives government, however, assured the EU that it would continue to work closely with the organisation.

"The government takes note of the statement given by the European External Action Service (EEAS) at the European parliament, and agrees that the way forward is working closely on issues of mutual concern," the government said.