Maldives President Praises Cambodian Dictator Despite Criticism

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of the Maldives has praised Cambodian Prime Minister Samdek Aka Moh Sena Padai Teko Hun Sen, despite criticism from Human Rights Watch, who have labeled Sen as a "fully-fledged" military dictator.

During a joint press statement issued by the leaders of the two countries, President Solih praised Prime Minister Sen as not only an experienced political leader but also a close friend of the Maldives. He went on to say that under Prime Minister Sen's leadership, Cambodia has shown the world that it is possible to re-open the country with a strong policy and overcome the economic crisis caused by COVID-19.

President Solih also noted the similarities between the two countries and expressed hope that the talks between the two leaders would further strengthen the existing relations between the Maldives and Cambodia. He also expressed hope that the two countries would continue to work towards achieving their shared goals in the coming years.

As part of the three-day official visit of the Prime Minister of Cambodia to the Maldives, the two countries signed a total of six agreements in the areas of visa waiver, health, tourism and economic development. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between the traders' associations of the two countries.

Prime Minister Sen arrived in the Maldives yesterday at the invitation of President Solih. Despite criticism from human rights organizations, the two leaders have focused on strengthening the relationship between their countries.