Amidst the diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) has strongly denounced derogatory comments made by certain deputy ministers directed at India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi after his visit to Lakshadweep.
In a statement issued on Monday, MATI condemned the remarks made on social media platforms by three deputy ministers of the Maldives Youth Ministry. The backlash ensued after Prime Minister Modi posted photos and videos of his visit to the pristine Lakshadweep Islands on India's west coast.
MATI acknowledged India's significant contribution to the Maldives' tourism industry, highlighting India's pivotal role in aiding the island nation's recovery efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The statement emphasized the longstanding relationship between the two nations, with India being one of the top markets for Maldives tourism.
Maldives Tourism Ministry statistics revealed that in 2023, over 17 lakh tourists visited the Maldives, with Indians comprising more than 2,09,198 visitors. The Association expressed gratitude to India, emphasizing the country's consistent support during various crises in the Maldives.
Following the viral remarks against Modi, social media witnessed widespread calls to boycott tourism in the Maldives, prompting concerns about the impact on the industry. However, reports indicated that a cruise liner from India arrived in the Maldives on Monday, carrying around 2,000 tourists, marking the first cruise liner visit this year.
The MATI statement concluded by expressing a sincere wish for the enduring relationship between the two nations and urged refraining from actions or speech that could negatively impact their good relationship. The Maldivian government had earlier suspended the three deputy ministers and reassured India of its continued support despite the derogatory remarks.
(With Agency Inputs)
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