Tourism Minister Calls on Indian Travellers to ‘Be a Part of Maldives Tourism’
Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has extended a warm invitation to Indian tourists, emphasising the significance of the Indian market for Maldivian tourism.
Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Fair in Dubai, Minister Faisal highlighted the enduring bond between the two nations and assured Indian visitors of a safe and secure tourism experience in Maldives.
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With India ranking as one of the top contributors to Maldives’ tourism sector, Minister Faisal stressed the pivotal role Indian tourists play in the archipelago nation’s economy. Despite the setbacks, including a diplomatic standoff and subsequent decline in Indian tourist arrivals, Faisal remains optimistic about revitalizing tourism ties between the two countries.
The diplomatic relations between India and Maldives faced turbulence following derogatory remarks made by Maldivian ministers in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Lakshadweep Islands. This led to widespread calls for a boycott of Maldives as a tourist destination among Indian travellers, resulting in a significant drop in tourist arrivals from India.
According to reports, the number of Indian tourist arrivals plummeted by 42% in the first four months of 2024 compared to the same period last year. This decline underscores the impact of diplomatic strains on bilateral tourism.
Furthermore, the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from aviation planes gifted to the Maldives by India, coupled with President Mohamed Muizzu’s vocal stance against Indian influence, has added complexity to the diplomatic landscape between the two nations.
Muizzu, who campaigned on an ‘India Out’ platform, has signalled a shift away from traditional ties with India, raising concerns about the future of bilateral cooperation.
However, Maldives remains a crucial maritime neighbour for India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), aligning with initiatives such as the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and India’s Neighbourhood First policy.
