In a move signaling a potential thaw in relations, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu is set to visit India “very soon,” his spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday. This visit comes amidst a backdrop of strained ties between the two countries, which have been impacted by recent controversies and political shifts.
The announcement of Muizzu’s upcoming trip followed the resignation of two junior ministers – Mariyam Shiuna and Malsha Shareef. The ministers’ resignations, attributed to “personal reasons,” are believed to be linked to their past controversial remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The ministers had previously faced criticism for their social media posts that targeted PM Modi, sparking outrage in India and calls for a tourism boycott, which is a major revenue source for the Maldives.
The resignations appear to be a strategic move by Muizzu’s government, aiming to appease India and create a more conducive atmosphere for the upcoming visit. The visit itself is seen as a significant step towards rebuilding ties with New Delhi. Muizzu, who has been criticized for his pro-China stance, has recently expressed his commitment to maintaining a balanced approach in regional relations, emphasizing that he will not replace Indian forces with Chinese troops.
The relationship between India and the Maldives has faced turbulence in recent years, marked by the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives at Muizzu’s request. This move, combined with the controversial remarks by the now-resigned ministers, has created a climate of distrust between the two nations.
India, viewing the Maldives as a strategically important neighbor in the Indian Ocean, had previously enjoyed strong bilateral ties with the island nation, especially in defense and security. The upcoming visit by President Muizzu presents an opportunity to potentially restore these ties and begin a new chapter in the relationship between India and the Maldives.
