The Maldives continues to uphold its friendship with India, emphasized by the country's Economic Minister in light of President Mohamed Muizzu's stance against the presence of foreign troops in the Indian Ocean archipelago. Upon assuming office last November, President Muizzu urged India to withdraw its 88 military personnel, citing concerns over sovereignty.
In an interview with Turkey-based news outlet TRT World, Maldives' Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed addressed the possibility of maintaining friendly relations with both China and India. He asserted that the Maldives cherishes its friendships with all nations, highlighting the country's openness as a tourist destination appreciated by both Chinese and Indian visitors. Minister Saeed reiterated the Maldives' friendship with India, clarifying that the rejection pertains to the presence of foreign soldiers rather than the nations themselves.
President Muizzu reaffirmed that no Indian military personnel, including those in civilian attire, would remain in the Maldives after May 10. While the initial batch of Indian troops operating a helicopter has departed, those stationed on the second platform are scheduled for withdrawal within the current month. Muizzu aims for the complete withdrawal of Indian military personnel by May 10.
Since assuming office, President Muizzu visited China, resulting in various agreements between the two nations, including those concerning non-lethal weapon supply and training. Regarding the decline in Indian tourist numbers, Minister Saeed dismissed exaggerated headlines, attributing fluctuations to broader tourism trends rather than political shifts.
Despite reports of increased tourist numbers overall, Indian tourist arrivals have declined. Statistics from the Maldives' Ministry of Tourism reveal a shift, with China leading arrivals followed by Russia, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, and India. The Maldives faced backlash following derogatory remarks by three Maldivian officials against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, prompting cancellations of Indian reservations and plans to visit.
Despite the #BoycottMaldives campaign, tourist arrivals in the Maldives have increased, notably with additional direct flights from various destinations. Comparative statistics indicate a 14% increase in arrivals in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. In 2023, over 17 lakh tourists visited the Maldives, with Indians comprising a significant portion. Although Indian tourist numbers declined in 2024, the Maldives remains a sought-after destination, welcoming visitors from around the globe.
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