In an attempt to address growing concerns in their bilateral relationship, Bharat’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, met with Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer in the Ugandan capital, Kampala. The two leaders engaged in a “frank conversation” discussing the current state of ties between the two nations.
Jaishankar, in Kampala to attend the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit, shared on social media, “Met Maldives FM @MoosaZameer today in Kampala. A frank conversation on India-Maldives ties. Also discussed NAM related issues.”
Met Maldives FM @MoosaZameer today in Kampala.
A frank conversation on 🇮🇳-🇲🇻 ties. Also discussed NAM related issues. pic.twitter.com/P7ResFlCaK
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) January 18, 2024
Zameer also expressed pleasure in meeting Jaishankar during the NAM Summit, stating, “We exchanged views on the ongoing high-level discussions on the withdrawal of Bharat military personnel, as well as expediting the completion of ongoing development projects in the Maldives, and cooperation within SAARC and NAM.”
The meeting comes against the backdrop of recent strains in Bharat-Maldives relations. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, had previously stated his intention to fulfill his election promise of evicting Indian military personnel from the country.
Tensions escalated on social media when Maldivian ministers used derogatory remarks against Bharat Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President Muizzu took action, suspending the ministers, leading to concerns in Bharat and calls for a tourist boycott by Bharat visitors, who contribute significantly to the Maldivian tourism industry.
Bharat and the Maldives, both key maritime neighbors in the Indian Ocean Region, have seen positive developments in bilateral ties in recent years, particularly in defense and security. In May last year, Bharat’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Maldives, handing over a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft. Additionally, the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), a major infrastructure initiative, was initiated in August by Prime Minister Modi and former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
Under the GMCP, a 6.74-km-long bridge and causeway will be constructed to connect the capital city Male with neighboring islands, strengthening connectivity and cooperation. The Maldives remains a significant beneficiary of India’s Neighbourhood First policy, emphasizing regional collaboration and mutual development. Both nations expressed commitment to strengthening and expanding their cooperation for the benefit of the region.
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