Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar met with Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon during his three-day official visit to the Maldives. The high-level meeting at the Defence Ministry brought together senior officials from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the Indian High Commission in the Maldives.
Minister Jaishankar said on X that they discussed “defence and security cooperation, joint initiatives for maritime security and our shared interest in maintaining peace and stability in the region.”
The talks centred on collaborative strategies to address complex security challenges, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to maritime security and other shared interests, according to the Defence Ministry. They underscored the need to respect each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the ministry said.
This meeting occurs against the backdrop of strained India-Maldives relations. The “India out” campaign, championed by President Mohamed Muizzu during the 2023 presidential elections, accused the previous administration of harbouring Indian military personnel. Derogatory remarks by senior ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi further exacerbated tensions, leading to an all-time low in bilateral ties.
The Muizzu administration, after assuming office in November 2023, expelled Indian military officers stationed in the Maldives, who were responsible for operating and maintaining three military aircraft gifted by India. President Muizzu’s pro-China stance also signalled a shift away from dependence on India for assistance.
However, recent developments indicate efforts to mend relations. The Indian troops were expelled following high-level talks earlier this year, and civilians replaced the Indian officers by 10 May. President Muizzu is now working to repair the strained ties, distancing his administration from the “India out” campaign. Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal even attributed blame for the campaign to former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.
As part of his visit, Minister Jaishankar also met with Economic and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed, Finance Minister Mohamed Shafeeq, and Central Bank Governor Ahmed Munawar. He concluded his visit to the Maldives on Sunday.