Maldives has extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend their Independence Day celebrations on July 26, signaling a potential improvement in relations between the two nations. This invitation, conveyed by Maldives' Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel during a recent visit to India, is being considered favorably by the Indian government. If the visit materializes, it would be Modi's first to the Maldives since President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November 2023.
The relationship between India and the Maldives experienced a period of strain following Muizzu's election, primarily due to his "India Out" campaign and his subsequent demand for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. This stance, coupled with perceived pro-China leanings, raised concerns in India and the West. Further exacerbating the situation were disparaging remarks made by Maldivian deputy ministers about Prime Minister Modi, which led to calls for a boycott of Maldivian tourism in India.
Despite these challenges, both governments have expressed a desire to maintain and strengthen diplomatic ties. President Muizzu attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony for his third term and later made a state visit to India, indicating a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Foreign Minister Khaleel's recent trip to India marked his third visit this year, underscoring the Maldives' intention to deepen its relationship with India.
During these high-level engagements, discussions have focused on various areas of bilateral cooperation, including development partnerships, defense and security, and trade and investment. India has reiterated its commitment to the Maldives' progress and development, while the Maldives has assured India that it will not take any actions that could harm India's security interests. Muizzu has maintained that the removal of Indian military personnel was based on the Maldivian people's desire for independence and non-interference in internal affairs. He has also stated that the Maldives will not allow its geographical location to be misused by any country to undermine peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
India considers the Maldives a key maritime neighbor and an important partner in the Indian Ocean region. The two countries share a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, and discussions are underway to explore a Bilateral Free Trade Agreement aimed at enhancing trade in goods and services. India has also been a reliable development partner for the Maldives, committing over $2.5 billion in development assistance since 2018. This aid encompasses infrastructure creation, capacity building, health cooperation, disaster relief, and climate resilience. Key projects such as the Hanimaadhoo International Airport expansion and the Thilamale Bridge demonstrate India's commitment to the Maldives' long-term development and connectivity. The Hanimaadhoo Airport project, financed through an India Exim Bank line of credit, is expected to be completed by September 2025 and will enhance connectivity to the northern atolls.
The invitation to Prime Minister Modi to attend the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations and the ongoing dialogue between the two countries suggest a potential thaw in relations. While challenges remain, the commitment to cooperation and the focus on shared interests offer hope for a stronger and more stable partnership between India and the Maldives.
