Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, currently on a four-day visit to India, has reaffirmed that his country will never take any action that undermines India’s security. Muizzu, whose government is grappling with an economic crisis, is in New Delhi to rebuild relations with India following recent tensions.
Arriving with First Lady Sajidha Mohamed on Sunday, Muizzu expressed his commitment to maintaining strong ties with India. In an interview with *The Times of India*, he emphasized that while the Maldives seeks to enhance cooperation with other countries, including China, it remains dedicated to safeguarding regional security and stability. “India is a valued partner and friend of the Maldives,” he said, adding that his country would never compromise India’s security.
The visit comes after strained ties between the two nations, particularly following the Maldives’ call for the withdrawal of Indian troops stationed there and remarks from Maldivian officials critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Muizzu, who had previously led an “India Out” campaign, explained that his decision to withdraw troops was in response to domestic concerns and aimed at addressing the Maldives’ national priorities.
Muizzu acknowledged that India and the Maldives now better understand each other’s priorities and that his visit aims to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two nations. He is scheduled to meet with Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, during his stay.
Despite his past criticism of foreign military presence in the Maldives, Muizzu clarified that he is not opposed to any specific country but focused on ensuring domestic and regional stability. The visit comes at a critical time for the Maldives, which is facing the risk of defaulting on its debt, with foreign reserves falling to $440 million.
This is Muizzu’s second visit to India, following his attendance at Prime Minister Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June.