External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to undertake a three-day visit to the Maldives from August 9 to August 11, 2024, marking a renewed effort to strengthen the partnership between the two countries. This visit comes at a crucial time as the Maldives, under President Mohamed Muizzu, has recently made moves to recalibrate its foreign relations, shifting away from its previous “India First” policy.

Jaishankar’s visit follows a significant diplomatic interaction earlier this year, when President Muizzu traveled to India for the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term. The Maldives, a strategically important maritime neighbor in the Indian Ocean, has been a key partner in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the visit aims to “strengthen the close partnership between the two countries and to explore avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship further.” This trip will be Jaishankar’s first visit to the Maldives since January 2023.

The bilateral relationship has faced strains following President Muizzu’s election, which was marked by an “India Out” campaign. One of Muizzu’s early actions in office was to remove Indian military personnel from Maldivian soil, a key promise of his campaign. His administration has also sought to improve ties with China, leading to a notable shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy orientation.

During his visit, Jaishankar is expected to address these recent changes and work towards rebuilding and enhancing the strategic partnership between India and the Maldives. The discussions will likely focus on strengthening cooperation in various sectors and addressing mutual concerns to ensure a stable and beneficial relationship for both nations.

Sources By Agencies