New Delhi, October 7, 2024 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu at Hyderabad House in Delhi on Monday. This meeting marks a significant step in mending the strained relations between the two nations, following a diplomatic fallout triggered by remarks from Muizzu's ministers against PM Modi.
President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, is on a five-day visit to India aimed at improving ties with New Delhi. His visit comes at a critical time for the Maldives, which is grappling with a severe financial crisis exacerbated by dwindling foreign currency reserves.
Upon his arrival in India on Sunday, Muizzu met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. "Jaishankar expressed his pleasure in welcoming the President to India for the state visit. President Dr. Muizzu conveyed his gratitude to the Indian government for the warm welcome extended to him and his delegation," stated a press release from the President's Office of Maldives.
On Monday, President Muizzu was accorded a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was received by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Maldivian President and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.
The bilateral talks between PM Modi and President Muizzu at Hyderabad House are expected to address the strained relations that have persisted since Muizzu's election victory, which was driven by the "India Out" campaign. After assuming power, Muizzu requested New Delhi to withdraw its troops from the Maldives, a move he justified by stating it was the will of the Maldivian people.
In a recent interview, Muizzu emphasized the evolving understanding between the two nations. "Maldives and India now have a better understanding of each other's priorities and concerns. What I did is what the people of Maldives asked of me. The recent changes reflect our efforts to address domestic priorities. Our review of past agreements is aimed at ensuring they align with our national interests and contribute positively to regional stability," he told RL.
Despite his engagement with China, Muizzu reassured that the Maldives would not undertake any actions that could undermine India's security. This visit is seen as a crucial opportunity to rebuild trust and cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
