Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has extended his congratulations to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on their victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This marks the BJP’s third consecutive term in power.
Congratulating Modi, Muizzu expressed his eagerness to collaborate with him to advance shared interests and promote the prosperity of both nations. “Congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi and the BJP and BJP-led NDA, on the success in the 2024 Indian General Election, for the third consecutive term. I look forward to working together to advance our shared interests in pursuit of shared prosperity and stability for our two countries,” Muizzu wrote on Twitter.
These statements come against the backdrop of strained India-Maldives relations since Muizzu’s election, which was fueled by an “India OUT” campaign. Muizzu has maintained close ties with China and compelled India to withdraw its troops from the Maldives. In January 2023, a movement to boycott the Maldives gained traction, with many Indians canceling their vacation plans due to derogatory remarks made by Maldivian ministers about Prime Minister Modi. Indian tourism-related businesses supported the boycott and suspended their services in the Maldives. India’s own beach destinations, such as Lakshadweep, experienced a surge in visitors during this period.
However, last month, Muizzu encouraged Indians to resume tourism to the Maldives, emphasizing the shared history between the two nations. “We have a shared history. Our newly elected government aims to work together [with India]. We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will warmly welcome Indian visitors. As the Tourism Minister, I encourage Indians to participate in Maldives’ tourism. Our economy relies heavily on tourism,” he stated.
Muizzu’s overtures to India signal a potential thaw in relations, which have been strained in recent years. The extent to which India and the Maldives can rebuild their partnership remains to be seen, but Muizzu’s statements suggest a willingness to engage with India and explore areas of mutual cooperation.
