First responder: On Maldives-India ties

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's first bilateral visit to India marks an effort to mend ties after a period of tension rooted in his election campaign's anti-India stance. This visit highlights the evolving diplomatic relationship between the Maldives and India amid broader regional dynamics.

Historical Tensions

• Election Campaign Legacy: Muizzu's presidency was initially shaped by the "India Out" campaign, creating significant friction with India. His administration’s earlier rhetoric suggested a distancing from Indian influence in Maldivian affairs.
• Tourism Controversy: A campaign promoting Lakshadweep as a tourism alternative to the Maldives followed critical comments from Maldivian Ministers about Modi. This sparked a "Boycott Maldives" movement in India, further straining relations.
• Delayed Diplomatic Engagement: Muizzu's choice to visit Turkey, China, and the UAE before India raised concerns in New Delhi. This sequence of visits was perceived as a slight, fueling apprehensions about Maldivian alignment with China.

Diplomatic Engagements

• Bilateral Meetings: During their first formal negotiations, India and Maldives addressed key issues, including the status of Indian troops in the Maldives. India agreed to replace military personnel with technical staff for aircraft maintenance, easing some tensions.
• Economic Support Initiatives: India provided $100 million in SBI subscriptions to support Maldivian T-bills, aiding Male in managing its debt obligations. This assistance came at a critical moment when Maldives was facing potential defaults.
• Strengthened Economic Ties: India extended $400 million in financial support and established a ?3,000 crore currency swap arrangement to stabilize Maldivian currency reserves. Discussions on infrastructure projects and Free Trade Agreements were also initiated.

Future Prospects

• Tourism and Investment Appeals: In engagements in Mumbai and Bengaluru, Muizzu promoted the return of Indian tourists to the Maldives and encouraged investment opportunities. This effort aims to revitalize the Maldivian economy through Indian partnership.
• Diplomatic Strategy Shift: Muizzu's softened rhetoric and dismissal of critical Ministers signal a strategic shift towards improving relations with India. This indicates a recognition of the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with India.
• Geopolitical Relevance: The renewed focus on collaboration reflects India's role as a "first responder" in the Maldives, reinforcing historical ties and geographical proximity. This diplomacy emphasizes the need for cooperative regional security and economic stability.

Practice Question

Q. Evaluate the implications of President Mohamed Muizzu's recent visit to India on the Maldives-India relationship. Discuss the historical context of their diplomatic tensions and the potential for future collaboration in economic and security matters.