Two Maldivian ministers resigned on Tuesday, adding another chapter to the ongoing diplomatic saga between the Maldives and India. The ministers, who were suspended in January for making allegedly “derogatory remarks” against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cited “personal reasons” for their departure. Their resignations come at a crucial juncture, preceding a potential visit by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to New Delhi. This visit could signify a renewed effort to mend ties between the two nations, which have been strained in recent months.
The episode began when the ministers, along with a third who remains suspended, publicly criticized Prime Minister Modi on social media, triggering a wave of outrage in India. Indian celebrities called for a boycott of Maldivian tourism, a vital pillar of the country’s economy. The incident also sparked a debate about China’s growing influence in the Maldives, a strategically important location in the Indian Ocean.
The diplomatic rift deepened earlier this year when several Maldivian leaders objected to Prime Minister Modi’s promotion of Lakshadweep, a chain of islands in India, as a tourist destination. They saw this move as a deliberate attempt to lure Indian tourists away from the Maldives, a popular destination for luxury vacations. The Maldives, situated amidst a critical global shipping route, has long been considered within India’s sphere of influence.
President Muizzu, who has been dubbed pro-China, has since toned down his anti-Indian rhetoric, signaling a potential shift in his approach towards India. He has pledged not to replace Indian forces with Chinese troops, aiming to maintain regional stability. Despite this, the Maldives remains a point of contention between India and China, with both countries vying for greater influence in the region.
The upcoming visit by President Muizzu to India is expected to be a significant event. It will provide an opportunity for both countries to discuss issues of mutual interest and explore ways to strengthen their relationship. The outcome of this visit will be closely watched as it could determine the future trajectory of the India-Maldives relationship.
