President Muizzu’s Upcoming Visit to India
In a significant political development, two ministers from the Maldives government have resigned just days ahead of President Mohammed Muizzu’s highly anticipated official visit to India. This shake-up comes on the heels of suspensions the ministers faced several months earlier due to making derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Resignations and Political Context
On September 10, suspended ministers Maryam Shiuna and Malsha Sharif announced their resignations from the government. They were among three junior ministers suspended in January for their comments against PM Modi. Heena Waleed, chief spokesperson for the President’s Office, confirmed the visit is being finalized, stating, “The exact date of Muizzu’s visit has not been determined yet, but discussions are ongoing to select a mutually convenient time for both leaders.”
Muizzu’s Previous Engagements in India
President Muizzu, recognized for his pro-China stance, had previously visited New Delhi on June 9 to attend Prime Minister Modi’s swearing-in ceremony. This visit was notable, given that it was standard for recent Maldivian leaders to visit India first after assuming office; however, Muizzu chose Turkey as his initial destination before heading to China for an official visit in January.
Strengthening Maldives-India Relations
During his swearing-in attendance, Muizzu expressed his gratitude towards PM Modi for the invitation, highlighting the importance of strong diplomatic ties between the Maldives and India for regional stability and prosperity. He characterized his initial visit back to India as a success for both nations and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to enhance the welfare of the Maldivian citizens.
Recent Developments in Bilateral Ties
In August, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made a noteworthy visit to the Maldives, representing the first high-level official visit from India since Muizzu assumed office in November of the previous year. The relationship between the two nations has faced challenges since Muizzu’s presidency began; almost immediately after taking office, he requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed on aviation platforms provided by India, which were subsequently replaced by civilian staff following talks between the nations.
Controversy and Government Stance
Relations have further soured due to controversial remarks made by three deputy ministers, which sparked significant political tension. The Maldives’ Foreign Ministry quickly distanced itself from these statements, asserting they do not reflect the government’s official stance. Following this controversy, the resignations of Shiuna and Sharif marked a significant shift in the government’s dynamics.
Conclusion
As President Muizzu prepares for his visit to India, the eyes of the international community remain focused on how both nations will navigate their current challenges and leverage opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation. With ongoing discussions about the visit’s date and agenda, it is clear that the trajectory of Maldives-India relations will critically depend on the outcomes of this diplomatic engagement.
