Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu assures India that he would never jeopardise India’s security interests

The first state visit of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to India marks a  milestone in the evolving diplomatic relationship between the two neighbouring countries. President Muizzu’s visit, represents not only a continuation of the historically strong India-Maldives ties but also signals a renewed commitment to fostering regional stability and cooperation. To put it in perspective, China has made inroads into Maldives much to the consternation of India. Chinese presence in its backyard is a clear security threat. But now things are looking better. President Muizzu has emphasised that while the Maldives follows a ‘Maldives First’ policy, it remains committed to ensuring that its actions would never undermine India’s security interests. The Maldives occupies a key strategic position in the Indian Ocean, making its foreign policy decisions crucial to India’s security and regional aspirations. India has long viewed the Maldives as an important ally in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region. This visit, following a period of political transition in the Maldives, underscores the importance of maintaining a strong bilateral relationship, especially amid concerns over the growing influence of China in the region.

President Muizzu has reaffirmed that its engagements would never compromise India’s security which indeed is music to Indian ears. This statement comes at a time when concerns have arisen regarding the Maldives’ expanding ties with China, especially in defence and trade. President Muizzu sought to allay these fears, stressing that the relationship with India, built on ‘mutual respect and shared interests,’ remains a priority. One of the key aspects of the India-Maldives relationship has always been defence cooperation. Earlier President Muizzu’s decision to expel Indian military personnel  was seen as a clear sign of Maldives acting on Chinese advice. Though on his part he explained that this move, though sensitive, was aligned with the will of the Maldivian people and aimed at ensuring the sovereignty of the Maldives. But that is diplomacy for you. Historically, defence and economic cooperation has long been a cornerstone of India-Maldives relations.  But things changed after President Muizzu took over last year in November. President Muizzu has expressed satisfaction with the progress of key Indian initiatives, including the Greater Male Connectivity Project, which is expected to significantly boost the country’s infrastructure and local economy. India has also restructured a line of credit arrangement to facilitate smoother execution of developmental projects, which President Muizzu acknowledged as a positive step. The visit is expected to further strengthen economic ties between the two countries, with discussions centered on boosting trade, tourism and investment. Perhaps shift in Maldives’ stance comes with the realisation of perils of aligning with China as many countries like Sri Lanka have paid a heavy price for their dependence on Chinese investments and grants.