Maldives’ Strengthening Ties With China Will Not Come at Cost of Relationship With India, Says Minister

Maldives Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel assured that the Maldives remains committed to its longstanding and robust relationship with India, even as the island nation seeks to expand its global partnerships.

In an interview with India’s WION news channel during his visit to India, Khaleel emphasised that strengthening ties with other nations, including China, would not come at the expense of the Maldives’ close bond with India. “Not only China, but we aim to strengthen relations with various countries across different sectors, be it trade, economy, or diplomacy,” Khaleel stated. “However, when it comes to India, our relationship with India remains paramount. Strengthening ties with other nations will never undermine our close and historic bond with India.”

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Khaleel’s remarks come amidst renewed scrutiny of the Maldives’ diplomatic stance, particularly regarding its growing relations with China. Concerns in India date back to previous administrations that appeared to favour Beijing, including a contentious period when the Maldives’ first official visit abroad bypassed New Delhi.

However, Khaleel clarified that the Maldives prioritises its relationship with India above all others. “India is always ready for anything the Maldives needs,” he noted, highlighting mutual respect and shared interests as the foundation of the bilateral partnership.

The Foreign Minister underscored India’s pivotal role in supporting the Maldives’ development across sectors, including security, trade, and regional cooperation.

India Out Movement Originated Under Yameen’s Leadership

Khaleel also addressed the contentious “India Out” campaign, which emerged during the tenure of former President Abdulla Yameen. The movement opposed the presence of Indian military personnel in the Maldives, raising tensions in bilateral relations.

“The individual who led the ‘India Out’ campaign was not part of the government; he was working against it from the opposition,” Khaleel explained, distancing the current administration from the movement. He reaffirmed that the government is committed to strengthening ties with India and that no internal or external forces could undermine this relationship.

Minister Rejects Allegations of RAW’s Attempt to Overthrow Maldivian Government

Responding to a recent Washington Post article alleging India’s interference in Maldivian politics, including efforts to oust President Mohamed Muizzu, Khaleel categorically dismissed the claims. “The article contained false information, and I do not know why such claims were made,” he said, urging caution when interpreting media reports.

While acknowledging that some political factions in the Maldives may harbour anti-India sentiments, Khaleel maintained that such views do not reflect the government’s official stance. “There may be individuals who oppose some of our policies, but this is their personal opinion, not the government’s thinking,” he noted.

Maldivian-Indian relations have faced challenges in recent years. In January, ties were strained following derogatory remarks by Maldivian officials about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, President Muizzu’s recent visit to India, during which he attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony, marked a turning point. The visit included a $400 million currency swap offer from India, a move Khaleel described as crucial for stabilising the Maldivian economy.

Despite occasional rhetoric emphasising the Maldives’ sovereignty and independence, Khaleel reiterated that the government holds its relationship with India in high regard. He highlighted India’s longstanding support for the Maldives, from economic assistance to facilitating medical tourism.

President Muizzu has also broadened healthcare partnerships, announcing plans to expand the Aasandha scheme to include services in Thailand and the UAE. While this diversification reflects a growing global outlook, Khaleel reaffirmed that the Maldives’ partnership with India remains central to its foreign policy.

As the Maldives navigates a complex diplomatic landscape, Khaleel’s remarks signal a clear intent to balance expanding global ties with maintaining strong regional partnerships, particularly with India.