In an effort to revive tourism amid strained bilateral relations, the Maldives has extended a warm invitation to Indian tourists, urging them to contribute to the country’s economy heavily reliant on tourism.
Maldivian Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal, in an interview with PTI Videos, highlighted the historical ties between the Maldives and India, expressing a desire for cooperation and peace. “Our newly elected government also wants to work together (with India). We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals. As the Tourism Minister, I want to tell Indians to please be a part of Maldives’ tourism. Our economy depends on tourism,” Minister Faisal emphasized.
The call comes after a significant decline in Indian tourist arrivals following derogatory remarks made against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three Maldivian officials on social media. This backlash led to numerous Indian tourists, including celebrities, canceling their reservations and plans to visit the Maldives. Consequently, India’s position as the top tourist market for the Maldives dropped to sixth place.
Statistics from a sun.mv report reveal a 42% decline in Indian tourist arrivals in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year. India, initially the top tourist market, saw a steep decline in arrivals, reflecting the strained relations between the two countries following President Mohamed Muizzu’s assumption of office and his pro-China stance.
President Muizzu’s administration has raised tensions by evicting Indian military personnel and accusing India of interference in Maldivian affairs. This has led to a reevaluation of tourism patterns, impacting the Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy.
The Maldives, a significant maritime neighbor in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), holds strategic importance in India’s initiatives like ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the ‘Neighbourhood First Policy.’ The appeal to Indian tourists underscores efforts to strengthen cultural and economic ties despite recent diplomatic challenges.
Sources By Agencies
