The foreign ministers of India and the Maldives met in the national capital, New Delhi, for the first time ever since relations between the two neighbouring nations nosedived. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who greeted his visiting Maldivian counterpart, Moosa Zameer, stressed that relations between the two nations are dependent on mutual interests and reciprocal sensitivity.
Although the Indian side did not mention China or its diplomatic shift ever since President Mohamed Muizzu took charge in September last year, Jaishankar emphasised how New Delhi maintained its "neighbourhood first policy" and rushed to help the archipelago nation whenever it needed it.
"As close and proximate neighbours, the development of our ties is obviously based on mutual interests and reciprocal sensitivity. As far as India is concerned, these are articulated in terms of our Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR vision. I hope that our meeting today has enabled us to strengthen the convergence of our perspectives in various domains," Jaishankar said.
Jaishankar emphasises mutual interests and sensitivity
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored the foundation of India-Maldives relations on "mutual interests" and "reciprocal sensitivity" during a meeting with Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer on Thursday. His remarks come amidst strained ties between the two nations since the assumption of office by pro-China president Mohamed Muizzu six months ago.
Jaishankar highlighted the significance of bilateral ties based on India's Neighbourhood First policy and the SAGAR vision. He expressed hope that the meeting would bolster alignment across various domains, emphasising the importance of strengthening mutual perspectives.
Strain in relations
Tensions escalated as Muizzu demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel operating in the Maldives, setting a deadline of May 10. While India has withdrawn most of its military personnel, competent Indian technical personnel have been deputed to operate the aviation platforms in question.
India's development assistance
Jaishankar acknowledged India's significant role as a development partner to the Maldives, citing infrastructure projects, social initiatives, and medical assistance as examples. He highlighted India's past financial support on favourable terms and its role as a First Responder during emergencies.
Bilateral discussions and cooperation
The two foreign ministers engaged in extensive discussions on bilateral ties and regional security concerns. They addressed ongoing capacity-building initiatives and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms for humanitarian services in the Maldives.
India and the Maldives navigate complex diplomatic waters, striving to uphold mutual interests and cooperation while addressing regional dynamics and security challenges.
Also read | Maldives Foreign Minister arrives in India for the first time after tensions flare between Male and Delhi
