India Remains Primary Stakeholder in Indian Ocean Region, Says Advisor to Muizzu
The election of Dr Mohamed Muizzu as the Maldives’ new president has raised concerns about its relationship with India, but a top advisor affirms that India will remain a pivotal stakeholder in Indian Ocean security.
In the presidential runoff, Muizzu defeated the incumbent president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, winning 54% of the vote, with a high voter turnout of over 86%.
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Congratulations and greetings to @MMuizzu on being elected as President of the Maldives.
India remains committed to strengthening the time-tested India-Maldives bilateral relationship and enhancing our overall cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 1, 2023
In the run-up to the presidential elections, the PPM/PNC coalition leveled accusations against Solih, suggesting that he had strong connections with India and claiming that the Indian military had a presence in the Maldives. These allegations were refuted by Solih’s administration.
While Muizzu had been perceived as having closer relations with China, he emphasised that concerns about a shift towards China are unfounded. He stated that the Maldives values its partnership with India in maintaining the safety and security of the Indian Ocean and will continue to be a strong ally of India in the international community.
The incoming administration will review various development projects initiated by India over the past five years, ensuring they align with the Maldives’ constitutional laws and feasibility.
Former Maldivian Ambassador to India Ahmed Mohamed emphasised the importance of fulfilling campaign pledges related to Indian projects while maintaining cordial relations with India without needing a foreign military presence.
It was noted that China had engaged with multiple political parties in the Maldives, and the new government is expected to seek more transparency in agreements and projects that serve the Maldives’ interests.
Some criticised the previous government for excessive secrecy and securitisation of its relationship with India, leading to perceptions of India as a partisan ally.
While the opposition campaigned with an “India Out” slogan, it is suggested that this was more populist rhetoric than a genuine desire for a shift in foreign policy.
Despite concerns about the election outcome, it is expected that the Maldives will maintain its strategic relationships with India and China, emphasising transparency and alignment with the country’s interests.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Muizzu and affirmed India’s commitment to strengthening the long-standing India-Maldives bilateral relationship and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
