New Delhi: Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, currently on a four-day state visit to India, emphasised in an interview with the Times of India that India is a valued partner and friend of the Maldives, with their relationship rooted in mutual respect and shared interests. He affirmed that the Maldives aims to strengthen its strategic ties with India to promote regional stability.
Muizzu arrived in Delhi on Sunday, aiming to mend the strained relations with India amid a pressing economic crisis in the Maldives. He is set to meet with President Droupadi Murmu and hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, where India is expected to announce new agreements in the infrastructure sector to bolster bilateral ties.
Muizzu’s Maldives first policy
During his visit, Muizzu plans to travel to Mumbai and Bengaluru to participate in business events. He highlighted that while the Maldives is enhancing cooperation with various nations, it remains committed to ensuring that its actions do not undermine regional security and stability.
Adhering to a “Maldives First” policy, Muizzu reiterated his country’s dedication to its longstanding and reliable relationship with India.
Jaishankar expresses optimism
External affairs minister S Jaishankar met with Muizzu, expressing optimism that the discussions with Prime Minister Modi will invigorate their friendly relations. He praised Muizzu’s commitment to strengthening India-Maldives ties.
Relations between the two nations have been tense since Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, took office in November. His current visit marks his second trip to Delhi since attending Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June. Muizzu campaigned on an “India Out” platform and requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives by May. However, he has since moderated his anti-India rhetoric, even dismissing ministers who had criticised PM Modi.
