The President of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, is set to embark on his first state visit to India from October 6-10, 2024. This visit marks a significant moment in the evolving diplomatic relationship between India and its key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It follows Dr Muizzu’s earlier trip to India in June 2024, when he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers.

During this visit, President Muizzu will engage in high-level discussions with India’s President, Mrs Droupadi Murmu, and hold crucial meetings with Prime Minister Modi. Key topics on the agenda include regional security, bilateral cooperation, and addressing international issues of mutual interest. The President’s itinerary also includes visits to Mumbai and Bengaluru, where he will participate in business events aimed at expanding economic ties between the two nations.

The Strategic Importance of India-Maldives Relations

The Maldives holds a pivotal place in India’s strategic and security interests, especially given its location in the Indian Ocean. This significance is underscored by Prime Minister Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, as well as the “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative, which emphasizes India’s commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation.

India’s approach to the Maldives has consistently been marked by a willingness to provide support during critical times. In recent months, India renewed its subscription to Maldivian treasury bills, offering financial assistance of $50 million to help stabilize the island nation’s economy. This came as the Maldives faced severe economic challenges, including dwindling foreign reserves and falling revenues. Such actions underscore India’s role as a key partner for the Maldives, despite occasional diplomatic tensions.

Renewing Diplomatic Relations Amid Challenges

The visit is especially significant given the diplomatic tensions that emerged following his election in 2023. His administration initially pursued an “India Out” campaign, calling for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. However, with the renewal of financial assistance and this state visit, there appears to be a thaw in relations, reflecting a willingness from both sides to prioritize mutual interests over past disagreements.

India’s commitment to the Maldives goes beyond financial aid. The External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, visited the Maldives in August 2024, where he held discussions with President Muizzu and other top officials. During the visit, several key projects were inaugurated, including India’s Line of Credit-assisted water and sewerage network for 28 Maldivian islands. This project, along with other infrastructure and development initiatives, highlights India’s active role in supporting the Maldives’ long-term growth.

Bilateral Cooperation: More Than Just Diplomacy

Beyond economic support, India and the Maldives have deepened their cooperation in areas like defence, education, and healthcare. The countries’ defence partnership remains critical for regional security, with ongoing dialogues on joint naval exercises and maritime surveillance. During Jaishankar’s visit, discussions with Maldivian defence officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security in the IOR.

The Maldivian government has also expressed appreciation for India’s support in social and infrastructural development. This includes several community-based projects, such as mental health programs and special education initiatives funded by Indian grants. Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the August visit to expand cooperation on capacity building and technology transfers. The introduction of India’s UPI digital payment system in the Maldives is also seen as a milestone in boosting financial connectivity.

A Broader Regional Impact

President Muizzu’s state visit is not only crucial for the bilateral relationship between India and the Maldives but also for the broader Indian Ocean region. As regional dynamics shift due to geopolitical pressures, India’s partnerships with its maritime neighbours become increasingly important. The Maldives, with its strategic location, is central to India’s maritime security and trade routes.

Looking Forward: A New Chapter in India-Maldives Relations

As the visit unfolds, it is expected that both nations will explore new areas of cooperation, particularly in the fields of renewable energy, climate change, and blue economy initiatives. These discussions are critical, given the Maldives’ vulnerability to climate change and India’s expertise in green technologies. Additionally, the business engagements in Mumbai and Bengaluru signal a shared interest in fostering private sector collaborations, further diversifying the economic ties between the two countries.