After months of strained ties over the ‘India Out’ campaign, PM Modi’s visit to Male signals a fresh start in India–Maldives relations.
India and the Maldives are once again on a cooperative path after a year of tense relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the Maldives in over a year signals a course correction in a partnership strained by recent political changes in the Maldivian government.
A Year of Strain: The ‘India Out’ Era
- In January 2024, newly elected Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu demanded the withdrawal of all Indian military personnel by March 15.
- Muizzu’s campaign heavily relied on the ‘India Out’ slogan, citing concerns over sovereignty.
- At that time, 77 Indian military personnel and 12 medical staff were stationed in the Maldives to operate India-gifted helicopters and a Dornier aircraft, crucial for search-and-rescue missions and medical evacuations.
- The demand came soon after Muizzu’s high-profile visit to China, further raising concerns about Male’s foreign policy pivot.
From Distrust to Dialogue
Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Male marks the strongest signal yet of normalising ties. Key highlights include:
- Meetings with President Muizzu, Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed, Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla, and former President Mohamed Nasheed.
- A fresh line of credit worth ₹4,850 crore from India for infrastructure and development projects.
- Discussions on climate change, renewable energy, and trade to expand bilateral cooperation.
In a statement, PM Modi said:
“Our nations continue to work closely in sectors like infrastructure, technology, climate change, energy and more. This partnership is greatly beneficial for our people, and we look forward to deepening it in the years to come.”
Media Voices: How Maldivians View the Reset
Prominent Maldivian journalists acknowledged the tense beginnings of Muizzu’s presidency but noted an improvement in ties:
- Ahmed Aiyadh, a veteran journalist, said:
“The fallout was real, but the government has realised the need to rely on India for progress. Modi’s visit proves Maldives depends on India for financial and developmental support.” - Maryam Waheeda, another journalist, added:
“There was friction initially, but that doesn’t have to last forever. People have always shared a warm relationship with India.”
Why This Reset Matters
✔ Restores trust between two key Indian Ocean neighbours
✔ Ensures continued Indian support in infrastructure, healthcare, and emergency services
✔ Counters China’s growing influence in the Maldives
✔ Strengthens regional security and economic cooperation
India and the Maldives seem to have moved past last year’s diplomatic low, opening a new chapter of strategic cooperation and goodwill.
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