Defence Minister to Visit India Amid Improved Bilateral Ties

Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon is set to embark on an official visit to India this week, following closely on the heels of Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel’s trip to the neighbouring nation.

Khaleel announced Ghassan’s impending visit during an interview with Indian news outlet WION, stating that the Defence Minister is expected to arrive in India “very soon.” This marks Ghassan’s first official visit to India since assuming office. 

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This visit comes at a time of recovering diplomatic ties between Malé and New Delhi. Relations had been strained in the early days of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration after his government called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives – a key campaign promise during the presidential election.

Tensions escalated further when three Maldivian deputy ministers made controversial remarks on social media about India and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The comments, made in response to a promotional post featuring India’s Lakshadweep as a competing tourist destination, prompted swift action from Malé. The Maldives Foreign Ministry distanced itself from the statements, clarifying that they did not reflect the official stance of the government. The three officials were suspended, and two subsequently resigned.

Despite the initial turbulence, both countries have demonstrated a commitment to mending ties. High-level engagements and mutual assurances have contributed to stabilising relations, with officials on both sides expressing a desire to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Ghassan’s visit is expected to further this agenda, signalling the Maldivian government’s intent to maintain constructive relations with its largest neighbour.