Maldives seeks to restore defence ties with India after months of strained relations

Eight months after a diplomatic rift led to the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, efforts are underway to rebuild defence cooperation between the two South Asian neighbors.

A visit by Maldivian Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon to New Delhi marks a significant step toward mending ties.

On Wednesday, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held extensive talks with his Maldivian counterpart in New Delhi, focusing on bolstering the defence capabilities of the Indian Ocean archipelago. Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing defence ties under its "Neighbourhood First" policy and vision for the Indian Ocean region.

According to a joint press statement, the discussions centered on strengthening the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. Both leaders reviewed bilateral defence and security cooperation in detail and reiterated their commitment to working closely to achieve shared goals.

Singh expressed India’s readiness to provide defence platforms and military assets to help the Maldives enhance its security preparedness.

The renewed engagement follows months of strained relations under Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who had adopted a pro-China and anti-India stance after his electoral victory. Shortly after taking office, Muizzu called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives for civil assistance purposes.

In February 2024, Muizzu ordered the return of the first batch of Indian personnel by March, followed by the complete withdrawal of the remaining 88 personnel by May. These personnel operated two helicopters and an aircraft that were crucial for medical evacuations and humanitarian missions.

During this period, the Maldives permitted a Chinese research vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 03, to dock at Male port, sparking further concerns about a shift in its foreign policy. Although officials stated that the vessel’s stopover was for replenishment only, it symbolised Male’s warming ties with Beijing.

Despite the initial tensions, there has been a visible effort to repair the bilateral relationship in recent months. President Muizzu, who broke tradition by delaying an official visit to New Delhi until October 2024, has since signaled a willingness to engage.

The Maldivian foreign and defence ministers have made subsequent visits to India, indicating a renewed focus on rebuilding trust and cooperation. The high-level defence talks are expected to lay the groundwork for a stronger partnership, addressing not only maritime security but also broader regional stability.

India and the Maldives share a long history of cultural and strategic ties.