In the wake of strained relations between India and the Maldives during President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, a prominent Maldivian minister has issued a plea to Indian tourists, urging them to bolster the island nation’s tourism-dependent economy.
Speaking in an interview, Maldives’ Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal emphasized the historical ties between the two nations and expressed a desire for collaborative efforts. “We have a history. Our newly elected government also wants to work together (with India). We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals. As the Tourism Minister, I want to tell Indians to please be a part of Maldives’ tourism. Our economy depends on tourism,” Minister Faisal stated.
This appeal comes in the wake of a significant backlash from India earlier this year, triggered by derogatory remarks about India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi made by Maldivian officials on social media. The repercussions were evident as many Indian travelers, including celebrities, canceled their trips to the Maldives. Consequently, India’s position as the top source of tourism for the Maldives plummeted to sixth place.
According to a report by sun.mv published on Monday, the number of tourist arrivals from India declined by a staggering 42 percent in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year. At the beginning of 2024, India held the top position as the largest tourist market for the Maldives, but swiftly descended to sixth place.
Official statistics from the Maldives’ Tourism Ministry reveal a stark contrast in Indian tourist arrivals between this year and the previous one. As of May 4, 43,991 Indian tourists visited the Maldives, a significant decrease from the 73,785 arrivals recorded during the same period last year. The strained relations between the two nations, exacerbated by President Muizzu’s assumption of office and subsequent actions, have been cited as the primary reason for this decline.
President Muizzu’s tenure has witnessed contentious actions, including the eviction of Indian military personnel from the Maldives and allegations of Indian interference in the country’s affairs. His victory in the presidential elections was fueled by an “India Out” campaign, signaling a departure from the historically close ties between the Maldives and India.
The Maldives holds strategic significance for India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and the deterioration of relations between the two nations poses challenges to initiatives like ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ of the Modi government. As efforts are made to mend diplomatic ties, the appeal for Indian tourists to support the Maldivian economy through tourism stands as a gesture of goodwill amidst diplomatic tensions.
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