Jaishankar’s Visit to Maldives a Key Diplomatic Push Amid Tense Relations

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 9th August. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to commence a three-day official visit to the Maldives today, marking the first high-level trip from New Delhi since President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, took office nearly nine months ago. This visit aims to address the deterioration in relations between the two countries.

Jaishankar’s visit follows President Muizzu’s trip to India on June 9 for the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Council of Ministers. It was Muizzu’s first official visit to India since his election in November last year.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the importance of the Maldives as India’s key maritime neighbor and a crucial partner in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. The visit aims to bolster the partnership between the two nations and explore ways to enhance bilateral relations further.

Jaishankar had previously visited the Maldives in January 2023, and earlier in May, Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited India and met with Jaishankar.

Strained Relations

Relations between India and the Maldives have been strained since President Muizzu assumed office. During his campaign, Muizzu advocated for an “India-out” policy and demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, leading to their replacement with civilians shortly after his inauguration.

Tensions escalated further when three Maldivian deputy ministers made derogatory remarks about India and Prime Minister Modi on social media. The Maldivian government suspended the officials following backlash from opposition leaders and public criticism.

Despite these challenges, the Maldives remains a significant maritime neighbor for India in the Indian Ocean region, with previous administrations in Malé fostering stronger ties in defense and security.