Maldives' party leader Ibrahim urges President Muizzu to apologize to PM Modi and Indians

Maldives Jumhooree Party (JP) leader, Gasim Ibrahim, has called on President Mohamed Muizzu to formally apologize to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India.

Ibrahim's request comes after Muizzu made remarks that were seen as critical of India during a recent interview. In the interview, Muizzu said that the Maldives is a "small country" but it will not be "bullied" by any other country. He did not name India, but his comments were widely interpreted as being directed at the nation.

Ibrahim, who is the leader of the opposition party in the Maldives, said that Muizzu's comments were "unwarranted" and have damaged the relationship between the two countries. He urged the president to apologize to Modi and the Indian people in order to repair the damage.

*"The recent remarks by President Muizzu have caused unnecessary strain on the relationship between the Maldives and India," Ibrahim said in a statement. "These remarks were unwarranted and have damaged the goodwill that exists between our two countries."

"I urge President Muizzu to formally apologize to Prime Minister Modi and the people of India for his recent comments. This will help to repair the damage that has been done and rebuild the trust between our two nations."

Ibrahim's call for an apology has been echoed by other Maldivian politicians and commentators. Many people in the Maldives believe that good relations with India are essential for the country's security and prosperity.

India is one of the Maldives' closest allies and has provided significant economic and military assistance to the country in recent years. The two countries also have close cultural and historical ties.

It is unclear whether President Muizzu will apologize to Prime Minister Modi and the Indian people. However, the pressure on him to do so is likely to grow in the coming days.

The relationship between the Maldives and India is important for both countries. It is hoped that Muizzu will take steps to repair the damage that has been done and rebuild trust between the two nations.