Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is set to visit India on May 9, marking the first high-level trip from Male since President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed office six months ago.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced Zameer's visit, emphasizing its potential to enhance bilateral cooperation between India and the Maldives.
Relations between the two countries faced challenges as President Muizzu insisted on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives, operating three military platforms. India has largely complied with this request, with President Muizzu setting May 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal.
"Moosa Zameer, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, will be in India on an official visit on May 9," stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday.
During his visit, Zameer is scheduled to meet with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.
Highlighting the significance of the visit, the MEA underscored the Maldives' importance as India's key maritime neighbor in the Indian Ocean Region, expressing optimism that Zameer's visit would further boost bilateral cooperation.
The Maldivian foreign ministry also confirmed Zameer's upcoming visit, stating that discussions with Jaishankar would focus on strengthening and expanding the longstanding partnership between the Maldives and India.
"This is Foreign Minister Zameer's first official visit to India since assuming office," the Maldivian foreign ministry added.
