Maldives welcome foreign mediation

July 23, 2010 (LBO) - The Indian Ocean island of Maldives said it welcomed help from international community to resolve an internal political deadlock stemming from a battle between the president and parliament. "We are extremely grateful to our friends and partners in the international communities (sic), who are trying to help us resolve the political impasse," a statement from the office of Maldives President Nasheed said.

On Thursday, the US Assistant Secretary of State MrRobert Blake visited the Maldives.

"Earlier this month, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited the Maldives and played an important role in helping to foster dialogue between opposition parties and the government," the statement said.

"The government has also received offers of help and support from India, the European Union and the Commonwealth.

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The Maldives government was shaken when President Nasheed's cabinet of ministers resigned after the parliament threatened to impeach them.

Though the cabinet was reappointed the parliament has not confirmed the move, extending a tense stand-off between the executive and legislative branches of the government.

Representatives from the International Parliament