The Maldives is increasingly seeking India's assistance in combating drug trafficking, which is reportedly fueling Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. This collaboration is particularly important due to the Maldives' strategic location along major Indian Ocean shipping routes, making it vulnerable to drug smuggling.
President Mohamed Muizzu has prioritized combating the drug trade as a national objective and may seek Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support during his visit to strengthen bilateral security partnerships. This visit, scheduled for July 25-26, 2025, coincides with the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations, where Modi will be the Guest of Honor. The focus will be on strengthening the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership between the two countries.
The Maldives' strategic location makes it a transit point for heroin, methamphetamine, and cannabis. The Maldives Police Service has reported a surge in drug-related crimes, with 494 cases in 2025 alone, a significant increase from previous years. This increase underscores the growing concern about regional trafficking operations. Drug trafficking networks are exploiting the archipelago's porous maritime borders. Recent incidents include the arrest of 10 foreigners attempting to smuggle drugs into the Maldives by sea and the detention of four Indian nationals accused of smuggling narcotics.
The drug trade in the Indian Ocean region is allegedly linked to Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism. The exact nature of this connection remains unclear in available sources, but the claim suggests that drug money is being used to fund terrorist activities. India and the Maldives are part of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), which aims to promote regional security by addressing transnational threats, including drug trafficking and terrorism. The five pillars of cooperation under the CSC are Maritime Safety and Security; Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation; Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime; Cyber Security and Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Technology; and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.
India has been providing assistance to the Maldives in various forms, including financial aid and defense equipment. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India has been lending a "helping hand" to the Maldives to stabilize its "stressful financial" situation. This includes a USD 400 million swap line and the extension of a USD 50 million treasury bill. In January 2025, India handed over defense equipment and stores to the Maldives, reiterating its commitment to the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.
The Maldives government is aware of the threat of terrorism and has focused its counterterrorism efforts on countering violent extremism and arresting individuals suspected of planning attacks or supporting terrorist organizations. The government views those within the penal system or involved in criminal gangs as being at heightened risk of terrorist radicalization. The Maldives works with the United States and international partners to strengthen counterterrorism efforts.
India and the Maldives are also discussing a free trade agreement and an investment treaty, with new areas of cooperation including renewable energy.
