News Desk
NEW DELHI – On the eve of a pivotal meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu affirmed that his country will continue to safeguard India’s security interests even as it pursues wider international engagements. During his first state visit to India, President Muizzu emphasized the mutual respect underpinning the relationship between the two nations, positioning it as a priority for regional stability.
“Maldives First” – With India at the Center
While adhering to his “Maldives First” policy, Muizzu stressed that his administration would never undermine India’s security, allaying concerns about the Maldives’ growing ties with China. “Maldives would never do anything that undermines the security of India,” Muizzu stated in an exclusive interview with the Times of India, echoing his stance that Indian interests remain secure even as the Maldives looks to expand its defense and trade cooperation with China. “India is a valued partner and friend of the Maldives, and our relationship is built on mutual respect and shared interests.”
Muizzu acknowledged that recent developments reflect a positive trajectory in bilateral relations between India and the Maldives. His remarks came amid the backdrop of regional geopolitical tensions, with India’s concerns about Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean rising in parallel with the Maldives’ engagement with the global superpower.
Yet, the president was clear: “While we enhance our cooperation with other countries in various sectors, we remain committed to ensuring that our actions do not compromise the security and stability of our region.”
Strengthening Defense Cooperation with India
Addressing the sensitive topic of defense cooperation with India, which has been under intense public scrutiny in the Maldives, Muizzu pointed to a growing understanding between the two neighbors. “Maldives and India now have a better understanding of each other’s priorities and concerns,” he said. Defense cooperation, he added, will remain a top priority despite the expulsion of Indian military personnel, a move that fulfilled one of his campaign promises.
While the withdrawal was largely driven by domestic demands, the president insisted that defense cooperation with India will continue to be robust. “The recent changes reflect our efforts to address domestic priorities,” he noted, adding that any agreements from the previous administration are being reviewed to ensure they align with Maldivian national interests.
Muizzu maintained that the broader security of the Indian Ocean region remains a shared concern for both countries, especially in the face of ongoing global conflicts that threaten regional peace. The Maldivian leader appeared optimistic that these collaborations will foster greater security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Economic Support and Development Initiatives
Turning to economic matters, Muizzu expressed his appreciation for India’s continued support in Maldivian development projects, especially in infrastructure. The Greater Malé Connectivity Project, an ambitious initiative to link several islands via bridges and causeways, has become a symbol of the deepening partnership between the two nations.
“We are pleased with the progress made on several key projects and initiatives announced during External Affairs Minister Jaishankar’s visit,” Muizzu said, referring to the recent commitments made by India to support Maldivian infrastructure development. He expressed optimism about the restructuring of the line of credit arrangement between the two nations, which has smoothed the way for the successful execution of key projects.
“These projects are vital for boosting our local economy and contributing to the Maldives’ prosperity,” Muizzu noted. While there is always room for improvement, he expressed confidence that, with India’s continued support, significant progress would be made in executing major projects such as the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.
Balancing China and India
Despite Muizzu’s reassurances, concerns about China’s growing influence over the Maldives continue to loom large in India. The Maldives is set to implement a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China, a move that some analysts argue could deepen the economic ties between the two countries. However, Muizzu was quick to defend the Maldives’ economic sovereignty.
“We are mindful of maintaining our economic sovereignty and ensuring that our trade policies benefit the Maldivian people,” Muizzu stated. “We will continue to engage in transparent and balanced trade practices to address any concerns and uphold the economic interests of our nation.”
He downplayed concerns about the potential trade imbalance with China, noting that the Maldives values its economic partnerships and remains committed to fostering growth through diverse international collaborations. The president underscored that these partnerships would be carefully managed to ensure they do not jeopardize Maldivian economic interests.
A Return to India First?
Muizzu’s comments mark a significant shift in tone from his earlier association with the controversial “India Out” campaign, which gained traction during his opposition years. The campaign, critical of the perceived overreach of Indian influence in Maldivian domestic affairs, had cast a shadow over the relationship between the two neighbors.
But Muizzu dismissed suggestions that his stance had dramatically changed, pointing instead to a longstanding tradition of close ties between the two countries. “Indians have always been welcome in the Maldives,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the people-to-people connection between the two nations.
He was careful, however, to reiterate his commitment to maintaining the Maldives’ sovereignty and independence. “It is essential for the Maldives to diversify its international relations and reduce over-dependence on any single country,” Muizzu said, adding that while India remains a key partner, the Maldives must also cultivate relationships with other nations to ensure its long-term stability.
Looking Ahead
As President Muizzu’s first state visit to India unfolds, the trip marks a moment of recalibration for India-Maldives relations. With strategic, defense, and economic ties back on track, both nations appear poised to strengthen a partnership grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for regional stability.
While Muizzu’s “Maldives First” policy will remain central to his administration’s approach, his visit to India reaffirms that India continues to be a crucial ally in the Maldives’ quest for prosperity and security. As the visit progresses, both countries are expected to further their cooperation, paving the way for a new chapter in their historically intertwined relationship.
