Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the Maldives marked a significant step in mending ties between the two nations, which had faced strains in recent years. A key question that emerged from the bilateral talks between PM Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu was whether China's role in the region was discussed.
When asked whether China's role in the region figured in the talks between the two leaders, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the discussions proceeded "on the assumption that security is an issue of mutual interest". He noted that President Muizzu expressed his commitment to the importance the Maldives attaches to security-related issues and to continued cooperation between the two countries. Misri also highlighted the regular and active contact between the security agencies of both countries, indicating India's continued engagement with the Maldives on matters impacting regional security. He emphasized that India continues to work with the Maldives on any issue that might impinge upon shared security interests in the region.
The context for these discussions is the evolving relationship between the Maldives, India, and China. Muizzu's election in late 2023, fueled by an "India Out" campaign, initially led to a distancing from New Delhi and a pivot towards closer ties with Beijing. This shift raised concerns in India about the Maldives potentially drifting into China's sphere of influence. However, relations began to thaw after India stepped in to help the Maldives avert a potential debt default, offering economic support as the tourism-dependent nation grappled with falling revenues.
Despite the earlier strains, both leaders alluded to a transformation in the relationship during their recent interactions. Modi affirmed that India is the "most trusted friend" of the Maldives and reiterated the importance of the Maldives in India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its vision for regional maritime cooperation. He also emphasized India's commitment to strengthening the Maldives' defense capabilities. Muizzu, in turn, expressed his commitment to strengthening cooperation with India across various sectors through high-level exchanges.
The talks resulted in several concrete outcomes aimed at bolstering the Maldives' economy and strengthening bilateral cooperation:
These developments signal a course correction in India-Maldives relations, with both countries seeking to deepen their partnership in areas of mutual interest. While the specific details of discussions regarding China's role remain undisclosed, the emphasis on shared security interests and continued cooperation suggests a mutual understanding of the importance of regional stability.
