Tue Oct 08 12:12:10 UTC 2024: ## Maldives President Seeks to Reset Ties with India, Invites PM Modi for State Visit

**New Delhi, October 8, 2024:** Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, in a bid to reset ties with India following a period of strain, has affirmed the importance of the relationship between the two nations. During a press briefing after talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, President Muizzu highlighted India’s significance as a major tourism source market for the Maldives and expressed hope for increased Indian tourist arrivals.

The Maldivian President’s visit comes after a ‘Boycott Maldives’ campaign gained momentum earlier this year, fueled by perceived anti-India sentiments among some Maldivian officials. This, coupled with President Muizzu’s earlier calls for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, had strained bilateral relations.

However, both leaders have expressed their commitment to strengthening ties and fostering a “Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.” This framework, they say, will focus on people-centric cooperation and act as a stabilizing force in the Indian Ocean Region.

President Muizzu, who won the Maldivian Presidential election last year on a platform that was perceived as pro-China, emphasized the historical and cultural links between the two nations. He highlighted the significant number of Maldivians who travel to India for various purposes, as well as the contributions of Indian citizens to the development of the Maldives.

Looking ahead, President Muizzu expressed his commitment to enhancing cooperation with India in various areas, including tourism, maritime security, and trade. He also invited Prime Minister Modi to undertake a State Visit to the Maldives next year to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Both leaders acknowledged the need for joint efforts to promote tourism between the two nations, including marketing campaigns and collaborative initiatives. They also discussed the potential for a free trade agreement between India and the Maldives, which could boost economic ties and attract further Indian investments in tourism and other sectors.

President Muizzu concluded his remarks by stating the Maldives’ commitment to a shared vision of peace and development, asserting that the country will remain a “true friend” of India.

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