With Maldives, a strategic reset

India has adopted a pragmatic foreign policy in restoring its ties with Maldives that had hit rough weather in recent times. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the island nation to attend its Independence Day celebrations last week and the words of the leaders during the visit signal a bridging of the distance between the countries. The signing of multiple agreements and the launch of projects attest to the strengthening of the relationship. India has extended aid to Maldives and promoted its developmental efforts, as it helped Sri Lanka to come out of its economic crisis. India has conducted itself as a responsible, bigger neighbour who goes to the aid of weaker neighbours in times of difficulty. It was also a demonstration of the country’s Neighbourhood First policy.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu had come to power in September 2023, after waging an electoral and public campaign on an ‘India Out’ platform. He reiterated his anti-India position immediately after assuming office. Muizzu’s visit to China in January 2024 and his call to India to withdraw troops from Maldives exacerbated the strain in the ties. Derogatory remarks about India by three ministers increased the alienation. It took some time for the leadership of the country to realise the impact of losing India’s goodwill. One obvious fallout was the drop in the number of Indian tourists, which has hurt the country that critically depends on tourism. Muizzu has now said that India is one of the major contributors to Maldives’ tourist footfall, which, he said, would increase with Prime Minister Modi’s visit. India has provided help to Maldives in infrastructure development and healthcare. The Prime Minister, during his visit, also held discussions with many officials and leaders of the Opposition. There was an effort from India’s side to insure the bilateral relationship against changes in the country’s internal politics and external relations.

India and Maldives share a long tradition of cultural, people-to-people, and diplomatic ties. Maldives holds strategic importance to India because of its proximity to trade routes. China has shown intent to extend its influence to Maldives, which also gained from its relationship with Beijing. But India need not consider itself China’s competitor for influence in the island nation. It can secure its relationship with that country on the strength of bilateral needs. It is also significant that the thaw comes at a time when India’s relations with most of its neighbours are not at their best.