The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) has expressed strong condemnation for derogatory comments made by some Deputy Ministers on social media platforms against Bharat and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The remarks surfaced days after PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep.
MATI highlighted Bharat’s historical role as a “first responder” to crises in the Maldives and emphasized the close relationship between the two nations. The association expressed gratitude for India’s continuous support, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where Bharat played a significant role in the Maldives’ recovery efforts.
Bharat’s substantial contribution to the Maldives’ tourism industry was also acknowledged by MATI, noting India as a consistent and significant contributor that has aided in the country’s recovery post-COVID-19. The association expressed a sincere wish for the enduring close relationship between the two nations.
Despite this, tensions have escalated, leading to EaseMyTrip, a major Bharat online travel platform, suspending flight bookings to the Maldives in the midst of the diplomatic row. MakeMyTrip reported a substantial rise in searches for Lakshadweep, launching a new campaign to promote Indian beaches.
The fallout between Bharat and the Maldives could potentially impact the tourism sector, a key component of the Maldivian economy, given that Indians constitute the largest group of visitors to the Maldives. This diplomatic strain follows growing tensions since the appointment of President Mohamed Muizzu in September last year.
In response to the derogatory comments, Deputy Ministers in the youth ministry of Maldives, Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, have been suspended. The Maldivian foreign ministry clarified that these remarks represent personal views and do not reflect the government’s official position.
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called upon domestic traders and exporters to refrain from business dealings with the Maldives in solidarity with India. CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal stated that the derogatory comments targeting Modi were deemed unacceptable by the business community, prompting the call for a boycott to express disapproval of such behavior.
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