Following External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to Male, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu emphasized that his government would not permit actions contrary to its foreign policy, reaffirming that he prioritizes Maldives’ interests. This statement was in response to a question about whether his government would support the ‘India Out’ campaign initiated by the ruling PNC-PPM coalition last year. President Muizzu clarified that there has been no shift in the country’s foreign policy. His remarks came shortly after Minister Jaishankar departed for India after a two-day visit, during which several projects were launched.
During Jaishankar’s visit, President Muizzu and his ministers displayed a warm and cooperative attitude, despite previous tensions between the two countries since Muizzu took office on November 17. This change in tone is largely attributed to Maldives’ severe economic crisis, with the country facing a substantial budgetary gap of several hundred million USD. India has already extended significant financial assistance, including rolling over a USD 50 million payment to the State Bank of India in May, with another USD 50 million due in September. Maldives also faces a USD 1 billion market repayment in 2026, raising the risk of default.
While the Modi government remains committed to supporting Maldives as a neighbor, the situation also sends a message to Bangladesh, which is similarly struggling with economic issues. India, unlike China, the US, or Western countries, has consistently stepped in to help these nations during crises. Despite President Muizzu’s attempts to secure financial aid from Turkey, China, and the Middle East, it is clear that only India can provide the necessary development, security, and financial assistance without demanding significant concessions.
President Muizzu’s decision to strengthen bilateral cooperation with India reflects his assessment of the past year and the realization that India is the only reliable partner for delivering on development, security, and financial needs. Major projects like the 28-island initiative and the Greater Male connectivity project, both launched before Muizzu came to power, are nearing completion and serve the national interest rather than any political agenda. Over the past year, Muizzu has also recognized the critical role of Indian security support in protecting Maldives from threats such as drug trafficking, piracy, and arms smuggling in the Indian Ocean.
Similarly, Bangladesh’s interim government will likely realize that it faces significant challenges in development, security, and financial stability, and that India under Modi is the only country willing to help without demanding unreasonable returns. Bangladesh, currently embroiled in a political crisis with Islamists targeting Hindu minorities and supporters of the ousted Awami League of Sheikh Hasina, is also on the brink of an economic crisis and may soon need to seek India’s assistance, much like Sri Lanka did in 2022.
President Muizzu’s recent statements are encouraging, indicating that Maldives recognizes the dangers posed by the rise of Islamists and the importance of maintaining strong ties with India. The red-carpet treatment extended to Minister Jaishankar during his visit reflects the growing understanding among neighboring countries that Modi’s India is a partner that cannot be underestimated.
