Abdulla Khaleel, appointed as the Maldives’ new foreign minister on Monday, held his first official meeting with Indian Ambassador Munu Mahawar on Tuesday.
The meeting marked Khaleel’s first formal exchange in his new role following his tenure as health minister. Ambassador Mahawar became the first foreign diplomat to meet Khaleel after his appointment.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Khaleel said the discussion focused on ongoing cooperation between the Maldives and India and on strengthening bilateral relations. The Maldives’ Foreign Ministry echoed these sentiments, stating that both sides discussed enhancing ties.
The Indian Embassy in Malé has not yet commented on the meeting.
Khaleel’s meeting with Mahawar comes ahead of an anticipated visit to India by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who took office last November. Muizzu rose to power on a platform that included an “India Out” campaign. However, the government has yet to disclose the date or details of the president’s upcoming visit to India.
After assuming office, President Muizzu made an official visit to China. Following that trip, Muizzu launched indirect verbal attacks on India, further straining ties between the two countries. Tensions escalated when senior Maldivian officials posted disparaging remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media. Despite this, relations have gradually improved since President Muizzu attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony.
Khaleel’s first official function as foreign minister was attending the celebration of China’s 75th National Day at Dharubaaruge in Malé on Monday, just hours after his appointment.
