Modi-Muizzu Meet: What’s at stake for India-Maldives relations?

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu arrived in India on Sunday for a four-day state visit, aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations amid an economic crisis in the Maldives. The visit comes at a critical time, as Muizzu seeks to rebuild relations with India after months of tension. During his stay, which lasts until Thursday, Muizzu will hold key discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Key Meetings with Indian Leadership

The primary agenda for Monday's meeting with Modi includes talks on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. India is expected to announce infrastructure agreements that will help strengthen the partnership between the two countries. Muizzu will also travel to Mumbai and Bengaluru to participate in business events, underlining the economic focus of the trip.

Read more: Maldives first, but President Muizzu says 'Won't hurt India's security for China's sake'


India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Muizzu at the start of the visit, expressing optimism about the outcome of the talks. Jaishankar highlighted Muizzu's commitment to enhancing the India-Maldives relationship, and voiced confidence that the upcoming discussions with Modi would reinvigorate their friendly ties.

"The talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Muizzu will give a fresh boost to the India-Maldives relationship," Jaishankar remarked on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Addressing the Economic Challenges of the Maldives

Relations between the two countries have been strained since Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, assumed office in November. However, Muizzu has softened his anti-India rhetoric in recent months, even dismissing ministers who were openly critical of Prime Minister Modi. This visit to India is Muizzu's second since attending Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June.

Despite running his presidential campaign on an 'India Out' platform, calling for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, Muizzu has shifted his tone. This change comes at a time when the Maldives is facing a serious economic downturn. To support the Maldivian government, India has extended budgetary assistance, including rolling over a USD 50 million Treasury Bill for another year.

The Maldives is grappling with rising external debt, a high debt-to-GDP ratio, and declining foreign exchange reserves. These economic challenges have led credit rating agencies like Moody’s and Fitch to downgrade the nation's credit rating in recent weeks, adding urgency to Muizzu’s diplomatic outreach.

Inputs from PTI