Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, in his inaugural bilateral visit to India, emphasized his country’s dedication to maintaining a strong partnership with New Delhi. Upon arriving in the Indian capital on Sunday, President Muizzu stated that the Maldives would not take actions that could jeopardize India’s security. He described India as a “valued partner and friend,” highlighting that cooperation across various sectors, particularly in defense, will continue to be a priority for his administration.
During his visit, which included a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Muizzu expressed his views in an interview with a national English-language newspaper. He characterized the Maldives’ relationship with India as one grounded in mutual respect and shared interests. He acknowledged India’s significant role as one of the Maldives’ largest trade and development partners.
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President Muizzu received a ceremonial welcome from both President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Following the formalities, he paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat before engaging in bilateral discussions with the Prime Minister at the Hyderabad House.
While refraining from explicitly naming China, President Muizzu stressed his government’s commitment to fostering growth through diverse international collaborations. He introduced his ‘Maldives First’ policy, advocating for a diversification of international relations to mitigate over-dependence on any single nation. However, he assured that these efforts would not compromise India’s interests.
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“Respect for our neighbours and friends is embedded in our DNA,” he stated, inviting Indian tourists to return to the Maldives, a crucial aspect of the country’s economy that faced challenges following a diplomatic dispute last year. The president remarked, “Indians make a positive contribution… Indian tourists are welcome.”
This visit marks a thaw in relations following a diplomatic standoff last year, which stemmed from controversial remarks made by Maldivian ministers regarding Prime Minister Modi. The Maldives’ Foreign Ministry later distanced itself from these comments, leading to the suspension and subsequent resignation of two ministers.
Concerns had also been raised when the Maldives requested the removal of 90 Indian military personnel from three aviation platforms gifted by India, a move that drew attention given the backdrop of Mr. Muizzu’s electoral campaign. He maintained that he acted in accordance with the wishes of the Maldivian people while reiterating India’s crucial role in maintaining regional stability.
“This historic relationship is intertwined like the roots of a tree… built on centuries of exchange and values shared. The relationship between the Maldives and India has always been strong,” he stated.
President Muizzu also acknowledged the significance of India-assisted infrastructure projects, including the Greater Male connectivity scheme and the provision of water and sewerage facilities for 28 islands in the Maldives. With the Maldives being one of India’s key maritime neighbors in the Indian Ocean, bilateral ties, especially in defense and security, have been on an upward trajectory, particularly under the previous administration led by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored this sentiment during a visit to Male in August, emphasizing the recognition of “common challenges and a shared interest in maintaining peace and security in the region.”
