Patience and skilful diplomacy have worked well for India to reset its relationship with the Maldives under President Mohamed Muizzu
The relationship between India and the Maldives has proven to be resilient and steadfast, impervious to external pressures that have sought to disrupt it. Despite attempts by outside entities to create discord, the bilateral ties are experiencing a resurgence, as evidenced by the recent visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to the Maldives from August 9 to 11.

This visit underscored the commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership, highlighting the enduring nature of their diplomatic engagement. Through skilful diplomacy, Indian leadership has successfully navigated temporary challenges in their bilateral relations, paving the way for a more profound cooperative framework grounded in mutual trust and respect for each other's security concerns.

Maldives as India’s important partner
India regards the Maldives as a vital maritime partner and has consistently demonstrated its willingness to support the island nation in alleviating the hardships faced by its citizens. This support extends beyond humanitarian assistance to encompass security measures aimed at protecting the Maldives from non-state threats, such as piracy, while also safeguarding its coastal regions, maritime boundaries, and extensive exclusive economic zone.

After the political turmoil that followed the national elections in November 2023, the situation in the island nation stabilized before the first high-level visit from India. The current Maldivian government likely acknowledged the Indian administration's sincere commitment to supporting the small nation, which has a population of around 500,000, viewing it as a moral duty to assist during crises and contribute to its economic growth and overall well-being.

This support has significantly improved the livelihoods and economic conditions of the Maldivian people. Over the years, India has provided a grant of USD 220 million to the Maldives, enabling the implementation of various developmental projects. The citizens of the Maldives are eagerly looking forward to the flagship development initiative that aims to connect Male with the nearby islands of Villingili, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi.

During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar held discussions with his Maldivian counterpart and other officials to evaluate the progress made so far. Furthermore, the External Affairs Minister visited Addu City, where he and the Maldivian Foreign Minister jointly inaugurated the Addu reclamation and shore protection project, as well as the Addu detour link bridge project.

India’s commitment to Maldives’s development
The citizens of the Maldives recognize that no other country possesses the commitment or desire to engage in such an intense developmental partnership. Following a meeting with Dr. Jaishankar, President Mohamed Muizzu expressed his satisfaction, stating that “our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region.”

His remarks came after the official inauguration of water and sewerage projects across 28 islands in the Maldives, which amounted to USD 110 million, part of a larger USD 800 million Letter of Credit issued in 2018.

Notably, the current Maldivian President, who has previously voiced strong criticisms of India, publicly acknowledged the support of the Indian government, particularly thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the consistent assistance provided to the Maldives.

Following the diplomatic tensions that arose after post-election altercation with India, the Maldivian President Muizzu's preference for Turkey and China over India, coupled with the welcoming of Chinese military vessels into Maldivian waters close to Indian shores, has led to a significant shift in the dynamics of India-Maldives relations.

This unexpected change in rhetoric is particularly striking given that President Muizzu previously spearheaded an “Out India” campaign within his nation. In a remarkable reversal, he has now characterized India as one of the closest allies to Maldives.” The Maldivian government has echoed this sentiment in an official statement, asserting that India has consistently been a vital partner, providing essential aid during times of need.

President Muizzu has also expressed his intention to further strengthen the ties between India and the Maldives. Notably, the focus on defence and security cooperation, which was a primary target of the Muizzu administration following his ascension to power in November, appears to be regaining momentum.

During a recent visit, External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar engaged in fruitful discussions with President Muizzu and his Maldivian counterpart, Moosa Zameer, as well as with the Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon. These discussions reaffirmed both nations' commitment to enhancing their defence and security partnership.

Maldives as crucial maritime neighbour
Following the conclusion of Dr. Jaishankar's visit, India underscored the significance of the Maldives as a crucial maritime neighbour and a key ally in its “neighbourhood first policy,” as well as in its broader vision of SAGAR—Security and Growth for All in the Region.

The Maldives continues to be an essential partner for India in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity within the Indian Ocean region, with both countries describing their relationship as multidimensional and grounded in mutual respect.

In response to the External Affairs Minister's visit to the Maldives, former Foreign Minister and President of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party, Abdullah Shahid, expressed his approval of the Muizzu government's recent shift in its policy towards India.

He acknowledged the implementation of various developmental projects and extended gratitude to India for its unwavering support to the Maldivian populace.

Shahid emphasized that the relationship between Maldives and India has historically been founded on mutual respect, adherence to international law, territorial integrity, and a shared commitment to regional security and a peaceful Indian Ocean.

Conclusion
India has consistently regarded its relationship with the Maldives as vital within the Indian Ocean context. It is imperative for any Maldivian leadership to acknowledge and respect India's security concerns. The Muizzu administration, however, overstepped boundaries by permitting Chinese surveillance vessels to dock along its shores.

India cannot permit a friendly nation to host external forces that threaten its security interests. The Muizzu government appears to have recognized this reality and is now dedicated to enhancing defence and security cooperation with India.

New Delhi hopes that Male will remain vigilant regarding security issues and refrain from allowing anti-India forces to operate from its territory or maritime zones.

***The writer is a senior journalist and strategic affairs analyst; views expressed here are personal