Maldives President’s visit to India was aimed at improving relations

Source: The post the Maldives President’s visit to India was aimed at improving relations has been created, based on the article “First responder: India and Maldives let subtle diplomacy surpass muscular posturing” published in “The Hindu” on 11th October is 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-International relations- India and its Neighborhood- Relations.

Context: The article discusses Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu’s first visit to India, aiming to improve relations after tensions from his “India Out” campaign. India has supported the Maldives financially, leading to renewed cooperation on tourism and infrastructure projects, highlighting their historic relationship.

For detailed information on India-Maldives Relations read Article 1, Article 2

What caused tensions between India and the Maldives?

1. Maldives:
2. President Mohamed Muizzu’s election campaign was built on the opposition’s “India Out” message, which contributed to tensions with India.
3. Maldivian ministers criticized Prime Minister Modi, which led to a “Boycott Maldives” campaign in India.
4. President Muizzu visited Turkey, China, and the UAE before India, breaking a tradition that leaders of friendly countries observe by visiting India first, adding to the strain.
5. India:
6. The “Boycott Maldives” campaign in India arose after criticism of Modi by Maldivian ministers.
7. India’s concerns were heightened by Maldives’ growing relationship with China, especially in defense and economic areas.

What steps were taken to smoothen relations?

1. Steps Taken by India to Smoothen Relations
2. India replaced the troops stationed in the Maldives since 2012 with technical personnel for aircraft maintenance, meeting President Muizzu’s request.
3. India extended financial support, including $100 million in SBI subscriptions of Maldivian T-bills, helping the Maldives avoid defaulting on debt.
4. India provided $400 million in support and facilitated a ₹3,000 crore currency swap arrangement to strengthen Male’s currency reserves.
5. India and Maldives discussed infrastructure projects, a Free Trade Agreement, and a maritime security partnership.
6. Steps Taken by the Maldives to Smoothen Relations
7. President Muizzu softened his earlier stance and dismissed ministers critical of Prime Minister Modi.
8. He advocated for Indian tourists to return and invited more Indian investments, signaling cooperation in tourism and employment sectors.

Question for practice:

Examine the factors that contributed to the tensions between India and the Maldives and the steps both countries took to improve their relations.