In the wake of dwindling tourist numbers from India and strained bilateral relations, Maldives is extending a warm invitation to Indian travelers to contribute to its tourism-driven economy.
Maldivian Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal, in an interview with PTI Videos, underscored the historical ties between the Maldives and India, expressing a desire for collaboration and emphasizing a commitment to peace and friendship. He urged Indians to consider visiting the Maldives, highlighting the vital role tourism plays in the country's economic landscape.
However, the Maldives witnessed a significant drop in Indian tourist arrivals following derogatory remarks made against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three Maldivian officials on social media. This backlash led to a notable decline in Indian visitors, with India slipping from the top tourist market for the Maldives to the sixth position within a short span.
Statistics indicate a 42% decline in Indian tourist arrivals in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year. At the beginning of 2024, India held the top position in terms of tourist market share, but this changed as relations strained, with India dropping to sixth place.
The strained relations between India and the Maldives stem from President Mohamed Muizzu's administration, which assumed office in November last year. Muizzu, perceived as a pro-China leader, vowed to remove Indian military personnel from the country, alleging Indian interference in Maldivian affairs. This tension culminated in the forced withdrawal of Indian military personnel from aviation platforms gifted by India to the Maldives.
Despite these challenges, the Maldives remains a crucial maritime neighbor for India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), holding significance in initiatives like 'SAGAR' and India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy.'
As the Maldives extends its invitation to Indian tourists, it underscores the importance of fostering goodwill and strengthening ties between the two nations beyond political tensions.