External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is on a foreign visit Three-day official visit to Maldives Amid diplomatic tensions, he stressed the need for stronger India-Maldives ties, saying the archipelago nation is not an “ordinary neighbour” of India.
the foreign minister, who Met with President of Maldives Mohamed Muizzu On Saturday, he said that it is necessary to deepen bilateral relations for the benefit of the people of both countries.
Jaishankar said, “Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are adopting the policy of ‘Neighbor First’. We pay a lot of attention to the countries of the Indian Ocean. We have a policy called SAGAR. But I definitely want to say that Maldives is not an ordinary neighbor.”
India-Maldives relations have worsened recently Relations further deteriorated after Muizzu, who is considered a pro-China leader, came to power. Relations further deteriorated after Maldivian officials, including a minister, were arrested in January this year. Made derogatory comments about Prime Minister Modi He had shared pictures of Lakshadweep, after which it was compared to Maldives.
Muizzu’s order to withdraw Indian troops from the country also caused diplomatic tension.
Jaishankar’s visit, the first high-level visit to the Maldives after Muizzu took office in November last year, is being seen as an effort to reset bilateral ties.
Speaking about his meeting with Muizu, Jaishankar said, “So when we talk about relations, it should be understood that relations between two people, countries, the minds and emotions of countries are also personal. People remember, you know you were with them in difficult times.”
He said the relationship (with the Maldives) is a “very important part. We will continue to nurture it. We will find practical ways to express our friendship.”
Sharing photos with the Maldives President, Jaishankar said, “Honoured to meet President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed PM Narendra Modi’s greetings. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region.”
In a post on Instagram, Muizzu thanked the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for “always supporting the Maldives”.
“Our enduring partnership continues to grow stronger, bringing our countries closer through cooperation in security, development and cultural exchange. Together, we are building a brighter, more prosperous future for the region,” he said.
Jaishankar also inaugurated Maldives’ largest India-funded water and sanitation project and interacted with Indian expatriates in the archipelago nation.