The Huravee’s journey from Male was escorted by the Indian Naval Ship Talwar….reports Asian Lite News
In a significant step reinforcing defence and diplomatic ties, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Ship (CGS) Huravee arrived at Mumbai’s Naval Dockyard, for a scheduled refit.
The Huravee’s journey from Male was escorted by the Indian Naval Ship Talwar.
“The refit, which is the first since the ship was handed over to MNDF in May 2023, will involve routine maintenance work as well as upgrades to extend the ship’s operational life and enhance its capabilities”, said a press statement by High Commission of India, Maldives.
The refit, estimated to cost over USD 4 million, will be financed by the Government of India, underlining India’s commitment to supporting its maritime neighbours.
The decision was announced during the recent visit of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to India from October 6-10.
This initiative underscores the deep-rooted friendship and multi-dimensional defense cooperation between India and the Maldives.
India’s support for the refit of CGS Huravee is seen as part of its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the broader Vision SAGAR, which stands for “Security and Growth for All in the Region.”
This policy aims to strengthen regional security and development through strategic partnerships.
The refit and upgrades to the Huravee are expected to boost the operational capabilities of the Maldivian Coast Guard, enhancing the Maldives’ maritime security infrastructure.
The collaboration reflects India’s dedication to capacity building in the Maldives, furthering its role as a key partner in the region.
Notably, Muizzu on October 20 decided to take the necessary steps to introduce the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) in the island nation, following the recommendation of the Cabinet.
This move came following India agreeing to share its expertise in the implementation of digital and financial services and to work in the development of the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) through the launch of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Unique Digital Identity, during Muizzu’s State Visit earlier this month. (ANI)
Muizzu highlighted the integration of digital financial services, the launch of the RuPay card, and the Maldives’ commitment to climate action and multilateralism….reports Asian Lite News
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu emphasised India’s role as a leader in technology and innovation as the island nation stands on the brink of a digital revolution.
Speaking at the India-Maldives Business Forum in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Muizzu stressed the importance of India-Maldives collaboration in achieving a digital and sustainable future for the Maldives.
He highlighted the integration of digital financial services, the launch of the RuPay card, and the Maldives’ commitment to climate action and multilateralism.
He further stated that his administration’s efforts to expand the digital economy through the launch of the Maldives Creative Economic Strategy aimed at revitalising technology-driven industries as well as arts and media.
“I am pleased to be here today in Bengaluru, the Garden City, during my state visit to India. The partnership between the Maldives and India is rooted in a mutual commitment to progress and innovation. As the Maldives stands on the brink of a digital revolution, we look to India as a leader in technology and innovation. Our collaborative endeavours in enhancing our digital infrastructure are poised to yield transformative results for our nations,” Muizzu said.
“Earlier this week, we celebrated the launch of the RuPay card in the Maldives, an important milestone in our journey towards a more interconnected economic landscape. This initiative stands as a testament to our vision for ease in trade and bolstering the growth of small and medium enterprises through streamlined transactions and enhanced access to global finance and e-commerce platforms,” he added.
President Muizzu also highlighted that the Maldives could benefit from information and communications technology collaborations by leveraging Bengaluru’s expertise, suggesting that stronger ties with educational institutions and tech companies could enhance technological resilience and bridge the digital gap.
Furthermore, Muizzu stressed that Maldives offers an ideal environment for Indian investment, given its proximity and shared cultural and economic ties, along with a favourable business climate.
He emphasised the importance of sustainable tourism, Maldives’ dedication to renewable energy solutions, and its ongoing efforts to enhance climate resilience.
He further invited Indian investors to explore opportunities in these areas, including renewable energy, emphasising that their expertise could foster a sustainable future, boost the Maldivian economy, and support global climate action.
Muizzu later expressed his gratitude to the Government of India, the Indian business community, and all those involved in making his visit a success.
The forum was held on the sidelines of the ongoing five-day state visit to India of President Muizzu along with First Lady Sajidha Mohamed.
This is the second time Muizzu is visiting India this year after attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this June. (ANI)
The Maldivian President made the remarks at the official banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday….reports Asian Lite News
Acknowledging the enduring partnership between New Delhi and Male, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu said that India has consistently proven to be a steadfast ally for the island nation.
The Maldives President, who is on a state visit to India, made the remarks at the official banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday.
Muizzu reflected on the shared values, history, and cultural exchanges that had shaped the “enduring partnership” between Maldives and India over the years. He further said that the diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India, on its sixth decade, is poised to flourish to even greater heights.
He reiterated his electoral pledge of mutual respect between neighbouring nations. President Dr Muizzu also expressed confidence on strengthened relations with India, built on mutually beneficial solutions that serve the interests of the two nations.
‘Shared values of democracy’
President Droupadi Murmu emphasised India’s close relationship with Maldives during her address at the banquet hosted to welcome President Muizzu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday.
Speaking on occasion, President Murmu said, “It is an honour to welcome Mohamed Muizzu, President of Maldives, and First Lady Sajidha Mohammed at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. India and Maldives are not only interjoined by geography but also by our shared values of democracy. As close neighbours, we’ve celebrated each other’s successes and have stood by each other in times of need.”
She said that the vision document adopted during Muizzu’s visit would elevate the level of the relationship for both nations and would also provide a clear roadmap for achieving a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership.
President Murmu noted that India is one of the top trading partners of Maldives and highlighted that there is also potential for taking forward collaboration in the field of digital payments and other new technologies.
During the gala, President Muizzu reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting the centuries-old maritime connection between the two nations.
“Our friendship is built on centuries of maritime connection, trade, and cultural exchanges. India is a second home for many Maldivians for trade, healthcare, education, and tourism,” he stated.
Both leaders agreed on the advancement of the bilateral partnership that would benefit the people of both nations.
President Droupadi Murmu hosted Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed for a banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier in the day.
During the interaction, Murmu said that Maldives is a close and an important partner under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Vision SAGAR’ policies.
President Murmu and PM Modi received the Maldivian President and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed as they arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Muizzu was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today.
Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with EAM S Jaishankar and other leaders and diplomats from both nations, also attended the event.
The Maldives President arrived in India on Sunday on a five-day visit. Muizzu’s visit to India, has come upon the official invitation of President Droupadi Murmu.
This is the second time Muizzu is visiting India this year after attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this June. (ANI)
Muizzu, First Lady visit Taj Mahal
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu accompanied by wife First Lady Sajidha Mohamed paid a visit to Taj Mahal in Uttar Pradesh’s Agra on Tuesday.
President Muizzu, who is on a five day State visit to India arrived in Agra earlier this morning.
“President His Excellency Dr @MMuizzu and First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed arrived in Agra, where they will tour the historic Taj Mahal as part of the President’s State Visit to India,” the President’s office of Maldives wrote on X.
Taj Mahal stands majestically on the banks of River Yamuna, and is an architectural marvel. In 1983, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Yesterday, the Maldivian President held meetings with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials.
Muizzu is on an inuagural bilateral visit to India from October 6-10.
He is in the country on an official invitation by President Droupadi Murmu. Upon his arrival in the country on Sunday, Muizzu was welcomed by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kiriti Vardhan Singh.
This rapprochement may pose challenges for China, as the Maldivian President appears poised to prioritise regional stability and security over rhetorical gains that previously undermined India’s regional interests…reports Asian Lite News
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s ongoing five-day state visit to India is his second trip to the country in four months. It highlights a significant diplomatic shift as Muizzu, who previously backed an “India Out” campaign in the Indian Ocean archipelago, now seeks to navigate the complex relations while balancing the country’s ties with China.
Muizzu, who took power last year, is recognised for opposing India’s significant influence in the Maldives and called for the withdrawal of approximately 80 Indian military personnel managing two rescue helicopters and a Dornier aircraft. This demand was met in May when India replaced military staff with civilian technical personnel.
A month later, he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who assumed office for a third consecutive term.
Breaking with tradition, Muizzu did not make India his first state visit after assuming the presidency, signalling a clear shift in his foreign policy. Meanwhile, his increasing alignment with China had further complicated relations. Earlier this year, the Maldives permitted the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 — perceived as a surveillance ship — to dock in its waters, raising Indian concerns about potential data collection by Chinese to support submarine operations in the region.
Concurrently, Muizzu visited China and signed 20 agreements that elevated bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, including a military assistance pact viewed as detrimental to India’s strategic interests.
Relations between the Maldives and India reached a nadir when a ‘Boycott Maldives’ campaign emerged on Indian social media following derogatory remarks made by three Maldivian ministers about Prime Minister Modi. Although these ministers were swiftly suspended, the incident significantly reduced Indian tourist numbers in the Maldives.
After Covid-19, Indian tourists represented the largest segment of visitors to the archipelago, but their numbers fell by 50,000 over the past year, resulting in an estimated loss of USD 150 million for the Maldivian economy.
Ideological and rhetorical considerations frequently take a backseat in realpolitik, especially in the face of deteriorating economic conditions.
Presently, the Maldives is facing a significant fiscal crisis, characterised by an external public debt estimated at approximately USD 8 billion and foreign exchange reserves that have dwindled to USD 440 million, a sum sufficient to cover only about one and a half month of imports.
Given a troubling debt-to-GDP ratio of around 110 per cent, credit rating agencies such as Moody’s and Fitch have downgraded the nation’s creditworthiness, as it endeavours to avert a scenario reminiscent of that experienced by Sri Lanka. In May, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) flagged the Maldives for its elevated risk of debt distress and recommended comprehensive policy reforms.
Since then, the relationship between the Maldives and India appears to be evolving towards reconciliation and enhanced cooperation.
In September, India intervened to mitigate the risk of a significant default on Islamic bond repayments by subscribing to Maldivian government treasury bills valued at USD 50 million, a measure it had also undertaken in May.
During the administration of former President Ibrahim Solih, India extended financial assistance amounting to USD 1.4 billion to the Maldives.
China remains another principal creditor, accounting for 42 per cent of the Maldives’ total foreign debt as of 2021.
Recently, President Muizzu announced that China has consented to defer loan repayments for a period of five years.
Prior to his arrival in New Delhi, President Muizzu commented to the BBC, stating, “India is fully aware of our fiscal challenges and, as one of our principal development partners, will consistently be prepared to alleviate our burdens”.
During the ongoing visit, he is expected to seek arrangements for currency swaps and debt restructuring. The discussions are also expected to culminate in agreements pertaining to infrastructure development, enhanced bilateral cooperation across various sectors, and, notably from a strategic standpoint, security collaboration.
In an interview with a leading Indian daily on the first day of his visit, President Muizzu acknowledged India as a valued partner and friend, asserting that the Maldives would refrain from any actions that could compromise India’s security.
In conclusion, it is apparent that President Muizzu, motivated by pressing economic considerations, is actively seeking to restore and strengthen diplomatic ties with India.
This shift is a positive development for India, given the Maldives’ strategic significance within India’s framework for the Security and Growth For All in the Region (SAGAR) vision and the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
Conversely, this rapprochement may pose challenges for China, as the Maldivian President appears poised to prioritise regional stability and security over rhetorical gains that previously undermined India’s regional interests.
Overall, the current trajectory indicates a promising potential for meaningful cooperation that aligns with both Maldivian and broader regional interests.
PM Modi and Muizzu held bilateral and delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in the national capital yesterday….reports Asian Lite News
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Indian government’s decision to provide support in the form of Rs 30 billion (USD 360 mn), in addition to USD 400 million bilateral currency swap agreement.
“I am thankful for the Indian Government’s decision to provide support in the form of 30 billion Indian Rupees in addition to 400 million US Dollars bilateral currency swap agreement which will be instrumental in addressing the foreign exchange issues we are facing right now,” Muizzu said.
PM Modi and Muizzu held bilateral and delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in the national capital yesterday.
Following the talks India today granted cash-strapped Maldives a USD100 million Treasury bills roll over, in addition to both sides inking a USD 400 million and Rs 3,000 crore currency swap agreement.
Describing the “development partnership” as an important pillar of New Delhi-Male ties, Prime Minister Modi asserted that India has always given preference to the priorities of the people of Maldives.
Prime Minister Modi said, “Development partnership is an important pillar of our (India-Maldives) relations. We have always given preference to the priorities of the people of Maldives. This year, SBI did a rollover of 100 million dollars of the Treasury Bench of Maldives. As per the needs of the Maldives, a 400 million dollars and Rs 3000 crore currency swap agreement was also signed…”
In September, India announced that the State Bank of India would subscribe Maldivian government bonds of USD 50 million. Earlier in May 2024, SBI had similarly subscribed a USD 50 mn T-bills under same mechanism, again on the request of the Government of Maldives.
In adddition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Mohamed Muizzu today witnessed the first transaction of RuPay card payments launched in the Maldives today.
The two leaders also virtually inaugurated the runway of Hanimaadhoo International Airport in the island nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India and Maldives will be connected through UPI in times to come. “A few days back, RuPay card was launched in Maldives. In the time to come, India and Maldives will be connected through UPI,” PM Modi said in a joint press statement along with President Muizzu at Hyderabad House in New Delhi today.
PM Modi further said that the island country holds an important position in India’s neighbourhood policy and SAGAR vision.
He underlined that India is Maldives’ nearest neighbour and close friend.
“First of all, I extend a hearty welcome to President Muizzu and his delegation. India and Maldives relations are centuries old. India is Maldives’ nearest neighbour and close friend. Maldives holds an important position in our neighbourhood policy and SAGAR vision,” PM Modi said.
Muizzu who arrived in India on Sunday on an inaugural five-day visit was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Maldivian President and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed as they arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Muizzu also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday here in the national capital. “Jaishankar expressed his pleasure in welcoming the President to India, for the state visit.
This is Muizzu’s second visit to India this year after attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this June. (ANI)
‘Discussion largely focused on bilateral ties’
The discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu largely focused on a bilateral relationship between the two countries, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Monday.
In response to ANI’s question, whether China was discussed during the meeting between PM Modi and Muizzu, Vikram Misri said that the talks majorly focused on bilateral ties, but some regional issues were also discussed.
“Without going into the specifics, the discussion was largely focused on the bilateral relationship and the expanse that is there in our bilateral relationship, the development partnership, the people-to-people linkages, the economic and trade relationship, you would have seen from the vision document as well and the remarks of two leaders that it is been decided to begin discussions on Free Trade Agreement,” Misri said in a special briefing on Monday.
“So, a lot of the discussions today, I would say a bulk of them were focused on bilateral relationship. Yes, there were some regional issues that were discussed as well. But, I would say focus really was on discussing bilateral relations,” he added.
PM Modi and President Muizzu held bilateral talks at Hyderabad House on Monday. Following the bilateral meeting, the two leaders also held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh were among other delegates who were present on the occasion.
In a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “Taking forward India-Maldives special ties! PM Narendra Modi warmly received President Mohamed Muizzu of Maldives as the latter arrived at Hyderabad House. Extensive discussions on India-Maldives bilateral relations lie ahead.”
Muizzu, who arrived in India on Sunday on a five-day visit was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today.
President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi received the Maldivian President and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed as they arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Muizzu and Maldives First Lady paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. After paying tribute at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial, Muizzu also signed the visitors’ book at Rajghat. (ANI)
It is apparent that President Muizzu, motivated by pressing economic considerations, is actively seeking to restore and strengthen diplomatic ties with India….reports Asian Lite News
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s ongoing five-day state visit to India is his second trip to the country in four months. It highlights a significant diplomatic shift as Muizzu, who previously backed an “India Out” campaign in the Indian Ocean archipelago, now seeks to navigate the complex relations while balancing the country’s ties with China.
Muizzu, who took power last year, is recognised for opposing India’s significant influence in the Maldives and called for the withdrawal of approximately 80 Indian military personnel managing two rescue helicopters and a Dornier aircraft. This demand was met in May when India replaced military staff with civilian technical personnel.
A month later, he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who assumed office for a third consecutive term.
Breaking with tradition, Muizzu did not make India his first state visit after assuming the presidency, signalling a clear shift in his foreign policy. Meanwhile, his increasing alignment with China had further complicated relations. Earlier this year, the Maldives permitted the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 — perceived as a surveillance ship — to dock in its waters, raising Indian concerns about potential data collection by Chinese to support submarine operations in the region.
Concurrently, Muizzu visited China and signed 20 agreements that elevated bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, including a military assistance pact viewed as detrimental to India’s strategic interests.
Relations between the Maldives and India reached a nadir when a ‘Boycott Maldives’ campaign emerged on Indian social media following derogatory remarks made by three Maldivian ministers about Prime Minister Modi. Although these ministers were swiftly suspended, the incident significantly reduced Indian tourist numbers in the Maldives.
After Covid-19, Indian tourists represented the largest segment of visitors to the archipelago, but their numbers fell by 50,000 over the past year, resulting in an estimated loss of USD 150 million for the Maldivian economy.
Ideological and rhetorical considerations frequently take a backseat in realpolitiks, especially in the face of deteriorating economic conditions.
Presently, the Maldives is facing a significant fiscal crisis, characterised by an external public debt estimated at approximately USD 8 billion and foreign exchange reserves that have dwindled to USD 440 million, a sum sufficient to cover only about one and a half month of imports.
Given a troubling debt-to-GDP ratio of around 110 per cent, credit rating agencies such as Moody’s and Fitch have downgraded the nation’s creditworthiness, as it endeavours to avert a scenario reminiscent of that experienced by Sri Lanka. In May, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) flagged the Maldives for its elevated risk of debt distress and recommended comprehensive policy reforms.
Since then, the relationship between the Maldives and India appears to be evolving towards reconciliation and enhanced cooperation.
In September, India intervened to mitigate the risk of a significant default on Islamic bond repayments by subscribing to Maldivian government treasury bills valued at USD 50 million, a measure it had also undertaken in May.
During the administration of former President Ibrahim Solih, India extended financial assistance amounting to USD 1.4 billion to the Maldives.
China remains another principal creditor, accounting for 42 per cent of the Maldives’ total foreign debt as of 2021.
Recently, President Muizzu announced that China has consented to defer loan repayments for a period of five years.
Prior to his arrival in New Delhi, President Muizzu commented to the BBC, stating, “India is fully aware of our fiscal challenges and, as one of our principal development partners, will consistently be prepared to alleviate our burdens”.
During the ongoing visit, he is expected to seek arrangements for currency swaps and debt restructuring. The discussions are also expected to culminate in agreements pertaining to infrastructure development, enhanced bilateral cooperation across various sectors, and, notably from a strategic standpoint, security collaboration.
In an interview with a leading Indian daily on the first day of his visit, President Muizzu acknowledged India as a valued partner and friend, asserting that the Maldives would refrain from any actions that could compromise India’s security.
In conclusion, it is apparent that President Muizzu, motivated by pressing economic considerations, is actively seeking to restore and strengthen diplomatic ties with India.
This shift is a positive development for India, given the Maldives’ strategic significance within India’s framework for the Security and Growth For All in the Region (SAGAR) vision and the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
Conversely, this rapprochement may pose challenges for China, as the Maldivian President appears poised to prioritise regional stability and security over rhetorical gains that previously undermined India’s regional interests.
Overall, the current trajectory indicates a promising potential for meaningful cooperation that aligns with both Maldivian and broader regional interests.
In view of the rising external debt, high debt to GDP ratio (approximately 110%) and falling Foreign Exchange reserves, Credit Rating Agencies Moody’s and Fitch have both downgraded the Maldives and any default on payments is likely to spiral the Maldives into a major crisis akin to the one faced by Sri Lanka in 2022
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu landed in Delhi on Sunday, for a four-day State Visit to India, and is expected meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday morning with a looming economic crisis and an imminent debt repayment on his hands back home.
In an interview to an international broadcaster ahead of his visit Muizzu said he hoped that India would be ready to “ease the Maldives’ burden”, and he is expected to request a currency swap arrangement and debt support during bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, after he receives a guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
“India is fully cognizant of our fiscal situation, and as one of our biggest development partners, will always be ready to ease our burden, find better alternatives and solutions to the challenges we face,” Muizzu had told the BBC in a written interview.
In September, India announced that the State Bank of India would subscribe Maldivian government bonds of $50 million, staving off the country’s most imminent crisis, and Muizzu is expected to request Indian support in terms of currency swaps and debt waivers.
He had earlier announced that China, a significant creditor, has agreed to defer loan repayments for five years. On October 8, Maldives is due to make a $25 million payment towards its $500 million “Sukuk” (Islamic bonds) debt repayment, out of a total $114 million still due this year, and about $1.5 Billion in the next two years.
In view of the rising external debt, high debt to GDP ratio (approximately 110%) and falling Foreign Exchange reserves (at about $440 million), Credit Rating Agencies Moody’s and Fitch have both downgraded the Maldives in recent weeks, and any default on payments is likely to spiral the Maldives into a major crisis akin to the one faced by Sri Lanka in 2022.
On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials called on Mr. Muizzu to prepare for the talks, which are expected to end with announcements of MoUs on Indian infrastructure projects, security cooperation and bilateral cooperation in other fields.
In a social media post, Jaishankar said Muizzu’s talks with PM Modi would “give a new impetus” to India-Maldives ties.
“I am confident that this visit will pave the way to further elevating the close neighbourly relations between our two countries and strengthen the enduring friendship and cooperation between our two peoples,” Maldives’ newly appointed Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel also said in a post describing the meeting, without offering any specifics on the discussions.
The visit by Muizzu to Delhi, his second since he attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony, marks a full turnaround in ties between the two countries from the tensions between them over the past year. Mr. Muizzu won elections in the Maldives last year on the back of an “India Out” campaign, and insisted that India withdraw military personnel from the archipelago by May this year. Unlike leaders of other friendly countries in the neighbourhood, Mr. Muizzu did not make India his first destination abroad, and visiting Turkey, UAE and China instead over the past year. Tensions also rose over remarks by Maldivian ministers that were critical of PM Modi, and led to an informal “Boycott Maldives” campaign by certain tour operators, that has halved the number of Indian tourists travelling there. However, after a number of bilateral ministerial meetings, and the Modi government completing the withdrawal of military personnel, ties have warmed up, and Muizzu recently sacked the Ministers involved.
While Muizzu’s visit to India has been expected for some weeks, the economic situation in the Maldives, as well as a cabinet reshuffle after the resignation of the Finance Minister had delayed plans.
Former Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, who visited Delhi in May, has now been appointed the Finance Minister. President Muizzu and his delegation will travel to Agra and Mumbai on Tuesday and then to Bengaluru on Wednesday.
President Muizzu, along with First Lady Sajida Mohamed paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi as well. After paying tribute at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial, Muizzu also signed the visitors’ book at Rajghat.
Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed on Sunday, interacted with the Maldivian community residing in New Delhi.
During the interaction, they inquired about the community’s well being, listened to their concerns and challenges, and reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to addressing the issues.
“This evening, President His Excellency Dr @MMuizzu and First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed engaged with the Maldivian community residing in New Delhi, India,” the President’s Office of Maldives said in a post on X.
“The President and First Lady inquired about the community’s wellbeing, listened to their concerns and challenges, and reaffirmed the Administration’s dedication to addressing those issues,” it added.
After assuming office, this will be Muizzu’s first bilateral visit, during which he is scheduled to hold high-level meetings …reports Asian Lite News
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is all set to begin his five-day (October 6-10) state visit to India on Sunday following an official invitation extended by his Indian counterpart Droupadi Murmu, an official said.
After assuming office, this will be Muizzu’s first bilateral visit, during which he is scheduled to hold high-level meetings with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials of the Indian government.
Earlier this year, the Maldives President attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi and the Council of Ministers at Rashtrapati Bhavan here on June 9. Before that, he also met PM Modi on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai on December 1 last year.
The President’s Office (Maldives) stated: “President Dr Muizzu remains committed to enhancing bilateral ties with nations that play a crucial role in the development and growth of the Maldives, ensuring a dynamic and proactive foreign policy for the nation… Discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation and further enhancing the longstanding relationship between the two nations.”
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the Maldives President, accompanied by a high-level delegation from his country, will also be visiting Mumbai and Bengaluru, where he will have business engagements.
“The visit signifies the importance India attaches to its relations with Maldives. It is expected to lend further momentum to cooperation and robust people-to-people ties between the two countries,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly media briefing on Friday.
In August, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar visited Maldives on an official three-day visit, his first since assuming office for a second term in June.
Before that, he had visited the strategically significant Indian Ocean archipelago in January 2023 as India maintained that Maldives occupies an important place in New Delhi’s vision of ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘SAGAR’.
“The visit of President Dr. Muizzu to India after the recent visit of the External Affairs Minister to the Maldives is testimony to the importance that India attaches to its relations with the Maldives,” the MEA said in a statement on Friday.
Even as the relationship between the two countries became strained last year, India remained a key provider of development assistance to the island nation with several projects funded by India benefitting the lives of thousands of people in the country.
Muizzu’s visit is considered important as India and Maldives experienced a decline in bilateral relations after he assumed office in 2023 on the plank of his ‘India Out’ election campaigning. After taking office in November 2023, Muizzu requested India to withdraw its military personnel from his country.
MEA reiterates that Maldives is India’s key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu will travel to India on a State visit on 6-10 October 6-10, 2024, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced in New Delhi on Friday (October 4, 2024). While in New Delhi, he will hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. He will also meet President Droupadi Murmu.
The visit, which is being seen as significant in the context of strengthening ties with an important maritime neighbour, comes less than a month after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar travelled to the Maldives.
This will be President Muizzu’s first bilateral visit to India. He had earlier visited New Delhi in June 2024 to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi and the Council of Ministers. He will also visit Mumbai and Bengaluru to attend business events.
Announcing the visit, the MEA reiterated that Maldives is India’s key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and holds a special place in Prime Minister’s vision of ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and India’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’. “The visit of President Dr. Muizzu to India after the recent visit of the External Affairs Minister to Maldives is testimony to the importance that India attaches to its relations with the Maldives and is expected to lend further momentum to cooperation and robust people to people ties between the two countries,” the MEA said.
President Muizzu’s visit comes less than a month after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar travelled to the Maldives to hold a series of high-level bilateral meetings and participate in the handing over of India-assisted development projects. EAM Jaishankar’s three-day visit to the Maldives from August 9 to 11 was his first since the government led by President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November 2023.
During a meeting with his counterpart, Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, he discussed various aspects of bilateral ties between the two countries, including development partnership, defence and maritime cooperation, capacity building, economic and trade engagement, and people-to-people linkages. EAM Jaishankar reiterated India’s consistent and continued support to Maldives in its quest for progress and prosperity. Earlier, they jointly inaugurated six High Impact Community Development Projects in the areas of street lighting, mental health, children speech therapy and special education.
EAM S Jaishankar also called on President Muizzu and conveyed greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking about his meeting with the Maldivian President, EAM S Jaishankar wrote on X: “Privileged to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings of PM Narendra Modi. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region.”
EAM Jaishankar later virtually inaugurated and handed over water and sanitation projects in 28 islands, commissioned under the Indian Line of Credit, in the presence of President Muizzu at the Presidential office in Male.
Foreign Minister Zameer had visited New Delhi for ilateral discussions with EAM Jaishankar on May 9, 2024. (India News Network)
While Muizzu’s visit has been in the works for about a month now, the issue was about finding mutually convenient dates….reports Asian Lite News
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is likely to visit India from October 6 to 10. While Muizzu attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June, this will be his first ‘standalone’ bilateral visit to India, almost a year after he assumed office in Male.
Muizzu is expected to hold bilateral talks with Modi on October 7, sources said. He is likely to travel to three cities — Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru — and arrangements for a packed schedule are being worked out.
While Muizzu’s visit has been in the works for about a month now, the issue was about finding mutually convenient dates.
Setting the stage for his visit, Muizzu, on September 27, had condemned the mocking of Modi by two of his former deputy ministers, and also denied pursuing any anti-India agenda. Softening public criticism against India, Muizzu had said the deputy ministers were wrong to insult Modi.
He had made the remarks during a visit to the US for the UN General Assembly. “No one should say such a thing. I took action against it. I will not accept insulting anyone like that, whether he is a leader or an ordinary person. Every human being has a reputation,” he had said.
Earlier this year, Deputy Youth Ministers Malsha Shareef and Mariyam Shiuna had called Modi names in social media posts, triggering a diplomatic row between the two countries. They were both on suspension following the incident, but resigned later.
On the issue of pursuing an anti-India agenda, Muizzu had said: “We have never been against any one country at any point. It’s not ‘India Out’. Maldives faced a serious problem with foreign military presence on its soil. The people of Maldives do not want a single foreign soldier in the country.”
Early this year, after his bilateral visit to China, Muizzu did, however, target India by calling it a bully without naming it. “We might be a small country, but that does not give you the licence to bully us,” he had said. His visit is significant since India and Maldives witnessed a slide in their bilateral ties after Muizzu assumed office last year on the plank of his ‘India Out’ campaign. Soon after coming to power in November 2023, Muizzu had requested India to withdraw its military personnel.
The two countries then agreed that India would pull out 80-odd military personnel stationed in the Maldives between March 10 and May 10. The Ministry of External Affairs had said that the two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft in the Maldives would be operated by “competent Indian technical personnel” who would replace the “present personnel”.
After the replacement of personnel was completed, Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited Delhi in May this year. A month later, Muizzu attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony. And, in August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar went to Male to discuss all areas of bilateral cooperation.
