Sansad TV Perspective: India-Maldives Relationship

In the series Sansad TV Perspective, we bring you an analysis of the discussion featured on the insightful programme ‘Perspective’ on Sansad TV, on various important topics affecting India and also the world. This analysis will help you immensely for the IAS exam, especially the mains exam, where a well-rounded understanding of topics is a prerequisite for writing answers that fetch good marks.

In this article, we feature the discussion on the topic: India-Maldives Relationship

Anchor: Vishal Dahiya

Guests:

1. Pramit Pal Chaudhuri, Foreign Affairs Editor, Hindustan Times
2. Dr. Sreeram Chaulia, Foreign Affairs Expert
3. Dr. Mohan Kumar, Former Ambassador

Context: President of the Republic of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is on an official visit to India from 1st to 4th August 2022.

Introduction: 

India-Maldives relations have been cordial and multi-dimensional. Both share linguistic, ethnic, religious, cultural and commercial links from ages. India was among the first to recognize and establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives after its independence in 1965. The Maldives is India’s key neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region and occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’. 

Image Source: Maldives Tourism

Image Source: World Atlas

Highlights of the discussion:

• Importance of the recent India visit by the President of the Republic of Maldives.
• Growth of India-Maldives relationship over time.
• Momentum in the relationship between both nations in recent years.
• The strategic importance of the Maldives to India.
• Significance of the location of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean.
• Irreversible assistance to the Maldives irrespective of the regime.

Significance of the visit:

• President Solih’s visit is aimed at tightening security, geo-political, and economic ties between both countries.
• This visit will mark the newly elected President of India Droupadi Murmu hosting a foreign dignitary for the first time as the President.
• The visit comes against the backdrop of a tougher time for both the nation’s common neighbour Sri Lanka which is facing an economic downfall and political turmoil. 
• India’s relationship with the Maldives was strained during the time of ex-President Abdulla Yameen due to his “India out” campaign and pro-China policies.
• This visit will provide an opportunity for both to review the progress made in this partnership and lend further momentum to it.

Read more about recent developments and the strategic importance of the Maldives to India.

Conclusion: 

With the change in times, the needs are also changing. The Maldives needs India’s support in several areas such as socio-economic development, climate change and countering anti-societal elements. At the same time, India needs the support of the Maldives to realize its ‘Neighbourhood First policy’ and secure its maritime boundary. India should focus on doing ‘irreversible’ assistance and remain a committed development partner for a stable, prosperous and peaceful Maldives. 

Read more summaries of Perspective in the link.

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