Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Bob Carr today noted the release of the report of the Commission of National Inquiry (CNI), established by the Government of Maldives to inquire into the transfer of power on February 7, 2012.

Senator Carr said the report examined the circumstances and legal issues relating to the events of February 7 and encouraged support for democratic structures in Maldives.

The report will be discussed at next week's meeting of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, to be chaired by Senator Carr.

"Australia urges all party leaders to take part in discussions which pave the way to free and fair elections and strengthen Maldives' democratic institutions," Senator Carr said.

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