Following a recent shift in rhetoric, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has extended an olive branch to India, affirming the longstanding bilateral ties and urging New Delhi to provide debt relief to the archipelago nation. Muizzu’s reconciliatory remarks come amidst a backdrop of strained relations and demands for repatriation of Indian military personnel from the Maldives.
With the Maldives facing a debt of approximately $400.9 million owed to India, Muizzu emphasized India’s pivotal role in providing aid and implementing numerous developmental projects in the country. Despite recent tensions, Muizzu reiterated that India will remain the Maldives’ “closest ally,” according to reports from Maldives news portal Edition.mv.
The conciliatory tone follows the departure of the first batch of Indian military personnel from the Maldives earlier this month, in accordance with Muizzu’s demands. However, the president’s call for the complete repatriation of all Indian military personnel by May 10 raised concerns over the trajectory of bilateral relations.
India’s assistance to the Maldives extends beyond military cooperation, with humanitarian and medical evacuation services being provided using helicopters and aircraft. The Maldives’ strategic significance, situated at the crossroads of key sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region and in close proximity to India, underscores the importance of stable relations between the two nations.
During the interview, Muizzu underscored the need for debt relief measures from India, citing the burden of hefty loans inherited from previous administrations. He expressed optimism in ongoing discussions with the Indian government to explore options for restructuring loan repayment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum in ongoing projects.
As Maldives prepares for parliamentary elections in mid-April, Muizzu’s conciliatory gestures towards India signal a potential thaw in relations. Despite inherited financial challenges, Muizzu conveyed appreciation to the Indian government for their contributions and expressed hope for continued cooperation and support.
Under the previous administration led by pro-India leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, significant loans were acquired from the Export and Import Bank of India (Exim Bank). Muizzu acknowledged the substantial debt owed to India, highlighting the necessity for pragmatic solutions to alleviate the economic burden on the Maldives.
