Next week, Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is expected to visit India, with both nations currently coordinating to finalize the dates, possibly early next week. This visit marks the first high-level engagement between the two countries since President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed office last year, succeeding the India-friendly Ibrahim Solih.
Relations between India and the Maldives have faced challenges under Muizzu's leadership, with efforts to limit defense and security cooperation with India. Zameer's upcoming visit aims to lay the groundwork for Muizzu's potential trip to India later this year, where discussions on bilateral ties, particularly regarding sovereignty and loan repayment, are anticipated.
Expressing gratitude for India's decision to increase essential exports to the Maldives for the fiscal years 2024 and 2025, Zameer emphasized the importance of longstanding friendship and bilateral trade expansion. His visit coincides with India's Lok Sabha elections and is likely to be the last high-profile foreign dignitary hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his current term.
The timing of Zameer's visit is crucial as it aligns with the May 10 deadline for India to withdraw troops from the Maldives and replace them with civilians. Despite the strategic significance of the Maldives in Indian Ocean commerce routes and China's growing influence since Muizzu's presidency, India has reluctantly agreed to comply with the troop withdrawal demand.
Muizzu's previous state visit to China in January, ahead of any visit to India, underscores the shifting dynamics in the Maldives' foreign policy. During this visit, agreements were reached, including defense aid arrangements, highlighting the deepening ties between the Maldives and China.
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