On Saturday, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar visited Maldives and met with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to reaffirm New Delhi’s commitment to strengthening ties between India and the Maldives. The visit marks a significant step in improving relations between the two countries, especially after a period of tension earlier this year.
Historical Context: Strained Relations
Relations between India and the Maldives have been tense recently. President Muizzu, who became president in November 2023, is known for being pro-China. Right after he took office, he asked India to remove its military personnel from the Maldives. This request strained the relationship between the two countries.
These Indian troops were there to operate helicopters and a plane that India had given to the Maldives. By May 10, 2024, the Indian military personnel were replaced by civilians, as both countries agreed.
Things got worse when some Maldivian leaders made negative comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President Muizzu’s government again insisted on removing Indian troops, which further hurt the relationship.
Muizzu’s Pro-China Leanings
Muizzu’s administration has shown a clear inclination toward China. Notably, China was Muizzu’s first overseas destination as president, where he signed several defense agreements. His administration’s ‘India Out’ campaign, which he led during his election against the then-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, highlighted his pro-China stance.
Improving Relations: Recent Developments
Even though there were problems before, India and the Maldives are getting along better now. In May, after Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited India, India gave the Maldives a $50 million loan. India also stopped limiting the export of important things like potatoes, onions, and rice, which has helped the Maldives with its construction projects.
In June, President Muizzu attended Prime Minister Modi’s swearing-in ceremony, signaling a positive turn in relations. Muizzu described his visit to India as a “success,” further indicating a willingness to mend ties.
Jaishankar’s Current Visit: Strengthening the Partnership
Jaishankar visited the Maldives to make the friendship between the two countries even stronger and to find new ways to work together. During a press conference with Maldivian Minister Moosa Zameer, Jaishankar said that India and the Maldives have a close relationship because both countries want to help each other.
He also mentioned that the Maldives is very important to India, especially in its plans to keep the neighbourhood peaceful and safe, which is part of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
Inauguration of Key Projects
During his three-day visit, S. Jaishankar and Moosa Zameer launched several important projects. They started new initiatives like better street lighting, mental health support, and special education for kids who need extra help. They also signed an agreement to bring digital payments to the Maldives, making it easier for both countries to do business together.
Jaishankar also opened new water and sewer systems on 28 islands, though this was done online. He also visited the Addu reclamation project and a new bridge, showing that India is committed to helping the Maldives build better infrastructure.
Jaishankar’s visit to the Maldives marks a new chapter in India-Maldives relations. After a period of strained ties, both countries are now looking forward to a more robust partnership that will benefit not just the two nations. But also contribute to regional peace and stability and maritime security. The initiatives launched during this visit reflect a shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient relationship that will continue to grow in the coming years.