President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives commenced a significant state visit to India to repair diplomatic relations. This visit includes meetings with high-ranking officials, focusing on key issues like economic cooperation and maritime security. The bilateral relationship, previously strained due to Muizzu’s “India Out” campaign, is showing signs of improvement through mutual visits and diplomatic efforts.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, alongside First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, commenced a significant state visit to India on Sunday aimed at rejuvenating the diplomatic relationship between the two nations. Upon his arrival at the Air Force Station Palam in New Delhi around 4:30 PM, President Muizzu was cordially welcomed by Kiriti Vardhan Singh, the Union Minister of State for External Affairs. The core purpose of this visit is to restore ties that have been tested in recent years. President Muizzu is expected to engage in discussions with key Indian officials, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The backdrop of the visit is particularly notable, considering Muizzu’s previous “India Out” campaign that called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, reflecting apprehensions regarding foreign military presence in their strategically significant islands. Despite this, it is worth mentioning that these military assets continue to operate under civilian Indian personnel. Despite the previous tensions, the Maldives and India have made concerted efforts in recent months to improve relations. Notably, Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited India in May, coinciding with the visit of Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to the Maldives in August. Furthermore, India’s support in averting a potential default on Islamic bond payments by extending the subscription of treasury bills underscores India’s commitment to aiding its maritime neighbor. President Muizzu, who is perceived to favor China strategically, has been recalibrating his government’s discourse concerning India and addressing previous antagonistic remarks from members of his administration on social media, including the resignation of two junior ministers following derogatory comments about Indian leadership. The official agenda for President Muizzu’s visit includes a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan and meetings to discuss vital aspects such as economic cooperation and maritime security. Additional engagements will take place in Mumbai and Bengaluru, where President Muizzu is anticipated to connect with the business sector and the Maldivian expatriate community, promoting investment and enhancing economic ties between the nations.
The context surrounding President Muizzu’s visit is rooted in the historical complexities of Maldives-India relations. Following Muizzu’s assumption of office in 2023, the Maldives’ foreign policy has navigated a delicate balance between asserting independence and maintaining fruitful ties with regional powers India and China. The previous administration under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had fostered closer relations with India, which included hosting military personnel. However, Muizzu’s campaign emphasized national sovereignty, reflecting public sentiment against foreign military presence. Recent diplomatic initiatives, including high-level visits and engagement with the business community, mark a potential shift towards collaboration and reconciliation.
In conclusion, President Muizzu’s state visit to India is a strategic effort to mend previously strained relations between the Maldives and India. The anticipated meetings with top Indian officials highlight the importance of enhancing economic cooperation and addressing regional security concerns. This visit signals a pivotal moment in diplomatic ties, emphasizing the Maldives’ commitment to balancing its foreign relations while engaging constructively with India. The outcome of these discussions could lay the groundwork for a more collaborative future.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
