Maldives takes centre stage in India's 'neighbourhood first' policy, says PM Modi to President Muizzu
PTC News Desk: On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s position as a "close friend" of the Maldives and underscored the significance of the 'Neighbourhood First' foreign policy, which has positioned New Delhi as a vital first responder to the island nation's various emergencies.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, Modi highlighted India's crucial role in providing financial and medical assistance, including the supply of COVID-19 vaccines during the peak of the pandemic.
Prime Minister Modi emphasised that the Maldives plays a key role in ensuring the security of the Indian Ocean Region. This issue has been closely watched by Indian authorities following President Muizzu's election victory last year. Muizzu, perceived by many as a pro-China leader, had campaigned on an 'India Out' platform, sparking concerns in New Delhi about potential shifts in the strategic balance in the region.
"Whether it was delivering essential commodities, providing vaccines during COVID-19, or ensuring drinking water supplies, India has consistently acted as a good neighbor," Modi said. He pointed to several key projects that India has supported, including the inauguration of an airport, the handover of 700 social housing units, and upcoming plans to aid in the construction of a new shipping port.
One of the major projects highlighted during the talks was a drinking water initiative that is now operational across 28 Maldivian islands. Modi noted that over 30,000 residents will benefit from clean drinking water as a direct result of this project.
The meeting between the two leaders was marked by a warm and amicable atmosphere, as seen in visuals widely shared online, showing Modi and Muizzu shaking hands and smiling after a ceremonial welcome hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu at Raj Bhavan.
President Muizzu, during his visit, encouraged the large-scale return of Indian tourists to the Maldives, a critical sector for the island nation's economy. Tourism, the country's primary revenue source, had faced setbacks after Indian tourists canceled reservations in protest of remarks made by three Maldivian ministers about Prime Minister Modi. The Maldives’ Foreign Ministry had distanced itself from those comments, but the incident had strained relations between the two countries.
Muizzu also expressed his desire to finalize a free trade agreement with India to boost investment opportunities in the Maldives. He praised India’s ongoing assistance, which includes the construction of vital infrastructure such as drinking water and sewage systems, handed over by Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, and road-building efforts in the Maldives.
Earlier in the day, President Muizzu reassured Indian officials that the Maldives would not take any actions that could compromise India’s security. In an interview with The Times of India, Muizzu described New Delhi as a "valued partner and friend" and affirmed that cross-country cooperation, especially in defense, would "always be a priority."
"Maldives would never do anything to undermine the security of India," Muizzu stated, adding, "While we enhance cooperation with other countries in various sectors, we remain committed to ensuring our actions do not compromise the security and stability of our region."
This is Muizzu’s first official bilateral visit to India, following a diplomatic stand-off last year sparked by the comments made by Maldivian ministers regarding Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives. Additionally, Muizzu’s request in May to withdraw 90 Indian military personnel stationed at three aviation platforms gifted by India had raised concerns. India accepted the request, replacing the personnel with technical staff, but the incident intensified the debate over Muizzu's campaign promise of an 'India Out' agenda.
Addressing this issue, President Muizzu stated that his actions reflected the will of the Maldivian people. While he denied harboring an 'India Out' agenda, Muizzu clarified that his government’s position was based on the public's desire to avoid having foreign military personnel stationed in the country. Despite this, Muizzu stressed that India remains a vital partner in maintaining regional security and stability.
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- With inputs from agencies
