The government of the Maldives has affirmed that the Samoa Agreement signed, does not conflict with Islamic values or the constitution. This statement was made in response to critics who claimed that some articles in the agreement were incompatible with the country's religion and legal framework.
Spokesperson of the President's Office Heena Waleed clarified the Maldives signed the agreement after presenting declarations and reservations on 12 specific articles that could potentially conflict with Islamic values and principles and the constitution. She noted that the Maldives has a history of signing similar agreements, always including necessary reservations and declarations to safeguard religious and constitutional values.
The government emphasised that it will not allow any circumstances that might conflict with the country's religious values or laws.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that the agreement aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the European Union (EU) and the Maldives. Key areas of focus include climate change mitigation and sustainable economic growth. The agreement is also expected to enhance the capacity of OACPS member countries to tackle global challenges, emphasising democracy and human rights, sustainable development, climate change, human and social development, peace and security, and migration and mobility.
The Samoa Agreement brings together 79 OACPS member states and 27 EU member states, representing nearly 2 billion people with diverse socio-economic backgrounds. This coalition represents more than half of the United Nations' member states.