In a highly anticipated diplomatic move, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is set to visit India on October 7, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit comes at a crucial time when the Maldives and India have experienced strained relations, particularly following Muizzu’s rise to power and his demands for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the island nation. Despite earlier tensions, this visit indicates a potential thaw in relations, with both countries working toward mutual prosperity and cooperation.
Muizzuās India Visit
The upcoming visit marks President Muizzuās second trip to India, following his first visit in June 2019, when he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his earlier visit, Muizzu described the trip as a “success,” highlighting the importance of India-Maldives ties for the future of the region. His return to India now underscores the efforts being made to repair and strengthen the relationship between the two nations.
According to Heena Waleed, the chief spokesperson at the Presidentās Office, the trip is being carefully scheduled to ensure maximum convenience for both leaders. “Discussions regarding the visit are ongoing, and we are committed to fostering stronger ties between the Maldives and India,” Waleed stated during a recent press conference. The visit is expected to further discussions on areas of mutual interest, including trade, security, and regional stability.
Denial of ‘India Out’ Campaign
One of the most significant aspects of Muizzuās visit to India is his attempt to dispel concerns over the Maldives’ alleged “India Out” campaign. Muizzu has faced criticism in the past for his pro-China leanings and for calling for the removal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. However, he has consistently denied pursuing an “India Out” agenda, clarifying that his concerns are solely focused on the presence of foreign military forces in his country, not a stance against any specific nation.
During a recent speech at Princeton Universityās āDeanās Leadership Series,ā Muizzu emphasized that his issue was with the presence of foreign military forces, not India itself. “We have never been against any one country. Itās not ‘India Out.’ The Maldives faced a serious problem with a foreign military presence on its soil,” he said. His remarks have been interpreted as an effort to reassure India that his government is open to positive bilateral relations.
Challenges in India-Maldives Relations
The India-Maldives relationship has been under strain since Muizzuās election as president. Known for his pro-China stance, Muizzu took office in November last year and quickly demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from key aviation platforms in the Maldives. This created friction, as India had stationed personnel as part of a broader effort to ensure regional security and stability.
In addition, derogatory remarks made by two junior Maldivian ministers regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modiās visit to Lakshadweep further strained relations. The remarks, which suggested that Lakshadweep was being promoted as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives, led to outrage in India and the cancellation of thousands of tourist trips, impacting the Maldivesā vital tourism sector.
However, both governments have since worked to resolve these tensions. Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer acknowledged that there were “rough patches” early in Muizzuās administration but expressed optimism about the future of the relationship, stating that the “misunderstandings” had been addressed. He also highlighted that the Maldives maintains good relations with both India and China, emphasizing the importance of balancing ties with both major powers.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Ties
Despite the challenges, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzuās visit to India signals a renewed commitment to fostering strong diplomatic and economic ties. The Maldives is heavily reliant on tourism, and India plays a key role as a source of tourists and economic support. Over the past several years, India has been involved in various infrastructure and development projects in the Maldives, including housing projects, airport development, and road construction.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the Maldives in August, marking the first high-level trip from New Delhi since Muizzu assumed office. His visit helped set the stage for the upcoming discussions, focusing on continued collaboration in areas like defense, tourism, and climate change.
Muizzu has publicly expressed his desire to maintain strong relations with India, calling it one of the Maldives’ “closest allies and invaluable partners.” His upcoming trip offers an opportunity to reinforce these ties, ensuring that both nations continue to benefit from mutual cooperation in the years ahead.
Conclusion
Maldives President to visit India likely to strengthen ties comes at a critical juncture, as both countries aim to overcome recent challenges and pave the way for future cooperation. With economic, security, and diplomatic interests at stake, this visit is expected to reinforce the long-standing relationship between the two neighbors, signaling a move towards greater collaboration and mutual prosperity.
Stay connected to know more onĀ arcnews.onlineĀ for global news like Maldives President To Visit India Likely To StrengthenĀ Ties. For videos updates visit ourĀ YouTube. Do subscribe to Arcnews to get latest updates directly in your mail box.
Have A Great Day.