Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm Eid greetings to Maldivian President Mohammed Muizzu. PM Modi emphasized the long-standing cultural and civilizational ties between both countries in his congratulatory message to the Maldives government and its people.
On a social media platform, PM Modi expressed, 'Today we celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr. This festival reminds us of the values of empathy, brotherhood, and unity necessary for creating a peaceful and inclusive world.'
The Indian High Commission also stated on the same platform that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has wished Maldivian President Mohammed Muizzu, his government, and the people of Maldives a happy Eid.
Ongoing Friction in India-Maldives Relations
From the time Muizzu took office in November last year, there has been a constant strain in the relations between India and Maldives. Muizzu began pressuring for the return of Indian troops based in the Maldives shortly after assuming power. His electoral campaign focused on the withdrawal of Indian soldiers as a core issue, coining the slogan 'India Out.' Muizzu is reputed to be a supporter of China.
In the Maldives, there were 88 Indian soldiers deployed across three aviation platforms. Following Muizzu's rise to power, the first contingent of 26 Indian soldiers has already returned to India. Subsequently, 26 Indian civilians were sent to take their place.
The Maldives is a key neighbor of India in the Indian Ocean region. It also holds a significant place in initiatives like the Modi government's 'Neighborhood First Policy.'
Why Maldives is Significant
What makes the Maldives special is its location in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago of small and large islands is situated next to the shipping lane which is a thoroughfare for energy supplies to China, Japan, and India. The Maldives is spread over 90,000 square kilometers in the Indian Ocean, though less than 300 square kilometers is land. Over 1,200 islands are scattered across the sea. The Maldives and India share a proximity of about 2,000 kilometers, making India its closest neighbor.
