Tourism Decline Prompts Maldives To Mend India Ties, Ministers Resign In Diplomatic Shift

The Prime Minister's visit to Lakshadweep earlier this year sparked unexpected mockery from two Maldivian ministers, Mariyam Shiuna and Malsha Shareef. Both ministers took to social media, where their tweets, considered offensive, caused a diplomatic strain between India and the Maldives. Their taunts aligned with the anti-India sentiment that had helped bring the Muizzu government to power in the previous year. These actions, breaking ministerial protocol, significantly affected relations between the two countries. The growing diplomatic rift reached a breaking point when the ministers were suspended, following India's escalating displeasure. The situation worsened as tourism, a key economic driver for the Maldives, took a hit, with reduced inflows from Indian tourists. Additionally, the Maldives' dependence on India for medical services and economic support became glaring during the standoff. In an effort to ease tensions, India's external affairs minister visited the Maldives in August, marking the start of a diplomatic thaw. This visit was followed by the resignation of Mariyam Shiuna and Malsha Shareef, signaling a shift in the Maldivian administration’s stance. Their departure reflects President Muizzu's realization of the importance of maintaining strong ties with India, despite earlier anti-India rhetoric. The resignation of these ministers is viewed as a symbolic gesture, showing the Maldives’ willingness to rebuild diplomatic relations. It underscores the deep historical, cultural, and economic ties between India and the Maldives, which are vital for both countries' regional stability in the Indian Ocean.