Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to India aims to restore and enhance diplomatic relations between the two countries amidst previous tensions. Following his arrival in New Delhi, he is scheduled to meet with key Indian officials, including Prime Minister Modi, to discuss economic cooperation and regional security. This visit reflects a measured approach as Muizzu balances his relations with both India and China while addressing concerns over foreign military presence in the Maldives.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, commenced a significant state visit to India on Sunday, with the objective of improving strained diplomatic relations between the two nations. Upon arrival at the Air Force Station Palam in New Delhi at approximately 4:30 PM, President Muizzu was received by Kiriti Vardhan Singh, the Union Minister of State for External Affairs. This visit represents a pivotal moment in Maldives-India relations, as it seeks to mend ties previously tested by Muizzu’s “India Out” campaign, which advocated for the removal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. Although concerns were raised about foreign military presence, Indian personnel remain in the Maldives, now operated by a civilian crew, reflecting a delicate balance in Muizzu’s foreign policy approach amid strong relations with regional power China. In recent developments, both nations have made efforts to restore diplomatic relations. The Maldivian Foreign Minister, Moosa Zameer, visited India in May, followed by Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s reciprocal visit to the Maldives in August. India’s recent assistance to the Maldives in avoiding potential default on Islamic bond payments by extending a treasury subscriptions worth $50 million denotes a commitment to strengthen ties. President Muizzu has also tempered his position towards India, stating during a discussion at Princeton University, “We have never been against any one country at any point. It’s not ‘India Out’. The Maldives faced a serious problem with foreign military presence on its soil.” To further alleviate tensions with India, Muizzu took corrective measures against certain members of his government who made derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Modi, signaling a pivot in his administration’s approach to India. The state visit includes several high-profile meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, where they are expected to sign agreements focusing on economic cooperation, maritime security, and various regional challenges. Additionally, Muizzu plans visits to Mumbai and Bengaluru to engage with the business sector and the Maldivian diaspora, with the aim of enhancing investment and economic collaboration between the two countries.
The Maldives, a strategically significant archipelago in the Indian Ocean, has historically balanced its foreign relations between regional powers India and China. However, under President Mohamed Muizzu, who rose to office on a platform critical of Indian military presence in the Maldives, the dynamics have recently shifted. The previous administration’s pro-India stance has faced challenges under Muizzu’s leadership, prompting a need for reconciliation as his government navigates complex regional politics and aims to sustain beneficial ties with both India and China.
In conclusion, President Muizzu’s visit to India signifies an important step towards reconciling the Maldives’ foreign relations, especially with India. Through strategic meetings and engagements intended to foster economic and diplomatic ties, this visit could mark a turning point in the bilateral relationship. By addressing past grievances and focusing on cooperative engagements, both nations exhibit a commitment to mutual growth and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
