Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu will visit India from October 6-10, marking his first official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. This state visit indicates a strategic shift in India-Maldives relations after tensions due to Muizzu’s ‘India Out’ campaign. Discussions will cover various issues, including military presence, and the visit emphasizes India’s commitment to a cooperative relationship in the region.
The President of Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, is scheduled to undertake his inaugural bilateral visit to India from October 6 to 10. This visit aims to foster discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is anticipated to invigorate the cooperation and ties between the two nations, as noted by the Ministry of External Affairs. The visit has been assigned the status of a state visit, indicating India’s desire to reset the previously strained bilateral relationships. Since his election in November 2023, which was marked by an ‘India Out’ campaign, Muizzu has actively sought to diminish the Maldives’ reliance on India, including the demand for the withdrawal of approximately 85 Indian military personnel stationed in the region. Such actions had recently exacerbated tensions between the two countries. However, a thaw seems to be occurring, as exhibited by previous visits between the Maldivian foreign minister and Indian officials. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the significance of this visit, stating it reflects India’s commitment to its relations with the Maldives, which he termed as a “key maritime neighbour” within the Indian Ocean. Discussions during Muizzu’s visit will likely center on fostering bilateral cooperation and discuss broader regional and international matters with Prime Minister Modi. Furthermore, President Muizzu will engage with President Droupadi Murmu, as well as participate in business events in Mumbai and Bengaluru, where he will also connect with the substantial Maldivian diaspora. Known for his pro-China stance, President Muizzu has also softened his tone regarding India in recent remarks abroad. He clarified the Maldives’ position on foreign military presence, stating, “We have never been against any one country at any point. It’s not ‘India Out’. The Maldives faced a serious problem with foreign military presence on its soil.” He has recently taken corrective measures against government officials who made derogatory comments about Indian leadership.
The relationship between India and the Maldives has historically been significant, but it has fluctuated in recent years. Under President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, which began in late 2023, there has been a concerted shift in foreign policy aimed at reducing Indian influence. This was epitomized by the ‘India Out’ campaign and resulted in a demand for Indian military personnel’s withdrawal from the Maldives. Despite these tensions, recent interactions between diplomatic officials hint at a potential reconciliation, underscoring the importance of their ties within the broader Indian Ocean region. The upcoming state visit is a critical step in refocusing bilateral cooperation, emphasizing economic, political, and cultural links.
In conclusion, President Mohamed Muizzu’s upcoming visit to India signifies an important development in Maldives-India relations. While the backdrop of recent tensions persists, signs of diplomatic thawing present an opportunity to revitalize cooperation and dialogue. As both nations seek to navigate their shared maritime interests and enhance economic partnerships, this bilateral engagement could lay the groundwork for a more stable and mutually beneficial relationship moving forward.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
