Overview
Since the Muizzu government assumed office in the Maldives, the country’s relations with India have faced challenges, primarily due to a noticeable pro-China stance, anti-India remarks by government ministers, and calls for the removal of Indian troops engaged in humanitarian efforts.
Upcoming Diplomatic Visit
Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is scheduled to visit India, likely on May 9th, in what is anticipated to be a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations. This visit will mark the first high-level visit by a senior official from the Muizzu government to India since taking office in November last year.
Expected Talks
The discussions during this visit are crucial in resetting the bilateral ties, which have been strained in recent months. The meeting between Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and Minister Jaishankar is expected to pave the way for future engagements and collaboration on various issues, including India’s infrastructure projects in the Maldives.
Recent Engagements
Under the Muizzu government, relations with India have been tense, marked by a pro-China stance, anti-India rhetoric by government officials, and calls for the withdrawal of Indian troops involved in humanitarian missions within the Maldives.
Previous Talks
Both External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and Minister Moosa engaged in discussions during the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in Kampala in January. They also interacted on social media regarding India’s decision to renew quotas for the import of essential goods from India for the years 2024 and 2025, emphasizing New Delhi’s “neighbourhood first policy”.
Historical Context
Traditionally, a new Maldivian government’s assumption of power is followed by a visit by the President to India to reaffirm Male’s “India first” policy. However, President Muizzu’s initial foreign visits included trips to Turkey, the UAE, and China, deviating from this customary practice.