External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar visited Male to meet with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, focusing on strengthening the partnership between India and the Maldives. The discussions centered around enhancing cooperation in security, trade, and development.
After the meeting, Jaishankar expressed his commitment to deepening ties between the two nations on his official X handle, stating, "Privileged to call on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings from PM Modi. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region."
President Mohamed Muizzu, who had previously led an "India Out" campaign, acknowledged the importance of India as one of the Maldives' closest allies, describing India as an "invaluable" partner that has consistently provided aid when needed.
Jaishankar's visit, which is part of a three-day official trip concluding on August 11, aims to explore further possibilities for enhancing bilateral relations. This visit is particularly significant given the recent tensions between the two countries. Earlier this year, diplomatic relations were strained when several Maldivian ministers and parliamentarians made derogatory comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Moreover, under President Muizzu, the Maldives renewed calls for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, marking a notable shift in the country's foreign policy.
Muizzu, who has a pro-China orientation, gained prominence through his 'India Out' campaign, which opposed the policies of his predecessor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. His victory in the September presidential runoff, where he ousted the India-aligned Solih, signals a potential realignment of the Maldives' geopolitical alliances.
This visit marks Jaishankar's first to the Maldives following his reappointment as External Affairs Minister. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the importance of this visit, noting that it follows President Muizzu's recent visit to India for the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet and Council of Ministers.
The Maldives, a key maritime neighbor of India in the Indian Ocean region, has seen an upward trajectory in bilateral ties, particularly in defense and security, under the previous Maldivian government. Jaishankar's visit underscores the ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen these crucial ties amidst changing political dynamics in the Maldives.
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