<p>A month after India announced financial aid to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-hands-over-defence-equipment-worth-rs-35-crore-to-maldives-8602372">Maldives</a> to help the island recover from the economic crisis, the Indian government is rethinking the decision. This rethink comes after Maldives decided to implement a free trade agreement with China, The Economic Times reported.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Maldives and China is expected to cause revenue losses for the island nation. It is further likely to create a trade imbalance for the country led by Mohamed Muizzu.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-defence-minister-in-india-first-ever-visit-by-defence-minister-since-muizzu-took-charge">Maldives Defence Minister In India: First Ever Visit By Defence Minister Since Muizzu Took Charge</a></strong></p>
<p>Maldives may face a loss of around $30-40 million per annum in customs fees due to the agreement with China, The Economic Times reported.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Moreover, Maldives is further in talks with Turkey for a similar agreement that would result in similar losses.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-incomplete-without-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-declares-rajnath-singh-in-fierce-warning-8621124">India &lsquo;incomplete&rsquo; without Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declares Rajnath Singh in fierce warning</a></strong></p>
<p>Last month, India announced a $760 million aid for Maldives to help the country prevent a sovereign default.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Moreover, in October 2024, India gave a $50 million interest-free loan to Male to help it meet its debt obligations. The loan was extended after a request by the Maldivian government.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In October 2024, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu visited India, and both nations agreed to discuss an FTA on the trade of goods and services.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-hands-over-defence-equipment-worth-rs-35-crore-to-maldives-8602372">India hands over defence equipment worth Rs 35 crore to Maldives</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>The 2024 row&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>In early 2024, India and Maldives faced some diplomatic tensions after derogatory remarks by the Maldivian ministers about the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This happened when PM Modi praised the beauty of India's Lakshadweep on social media in order to boost tourism.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Maldives' ministers, now suspended, responded with some derogatory remarks against the PM.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preparations-underway-for-indonesian-presidents-india-visit-this-month-8595714">Preparations underway for Indonesian President's visit as Republic Day chief guest</a></strong></p>
<p>After the row, the Indian tourist arrivals in Maldives decreased by 42 per cent in the first four months of the year 2024.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

South Asia | The Maldives may face a loss of around $30-40 million per annum in customs fees due to the agreement with China, The Economic Times reported. 

A month after India announced financial aid to Maldives to help the island recover from the economic crisis, the Indian government is rethinking the decision. This rethink comes after Maldives decided to implement a free trade agreement with China, The Economic Times reported. The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Maldives and China is expected to cause revenue losses for the island nation. It is further likely to create a trade imbalance for the country led by Mohamed Muizzu. WATCH: Maldives Defence Minister In India: First Ever Visit By Defence Minister Since Muizzu Took Charge Maldives may face a loss of around $30-40 million per annum in customs fees due to the agreement with China, The Economic Times reported. Moreover, Maldives is further in talks with Turkey for a similar agreement that would result in similar losses. Also read: India ‘incomplete’ without Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declares Rajnath Singh in fierce warning Last month, India announced a $760 million aid for Maldives to help the country prevent a sovereign default. Moreover, in October 2024, India gave a $50 million interest-free loan to Male to help it meet its debt obligations. The loan was extended after a request by the Maldivian government. In October 2024, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu visited India, and both nations agreed to discuss an FTA on the trade of goods and services. Also read: India hands over defence equipment worth Rs 35 crore to Maldives The 2024 row In early 2024, India and Maldives faced some diplomatic tensions after derogatory remarks by the Maldivian ministers about the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This happened when PM Modi praised the beauty of India's Lakshadweep on social media in order to boost tourism. Maldives' ministers, now suspended, responded with some derogatory remarks against the PM. Also read: Preparations underway for Indonesian President's visit as Republic Day chief guest After the row, the Indian tourist arrivals in Maldives decreased by 42 per cent in the first four months of the year 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

India rethinks aid to Maldives after Male's FTA with China

<p>Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has hailed his two-day visit to India as a significant success, marking a positive step forward in the bilateral ties of the neighbouring countries.&nbsp;President Muizzu was in New Delhi to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this Sunday.</p>

<p>Speaking to the Maldives government broadcaster, PSM, he expressed his satisfaction with the visit and the outcomes achieved.</p>

<p>Describing his trip as a triumph for both the Maldives and the broader region, President Muizzu said, "I was delighted to receive the PM's invitation and I am equally delighted to have been able to participate in the swearing-in ceremony.&nbsp;I am also really grateful for being able to hold high-level meetings with the PM, President, and EAM Jaishankar."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiX_dqzudOGAxV6avUHHeK3AvkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-president-muizzu-in-delhi-maldives-open-inquiry-into-three-key-pacts-signed-with-india-730585" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-president-muizzu-in-delhi-maldives-open-inquiry-into-three-key-pacts-signed-with-india-730585&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiX_dqzudOGAxV6avUHHeK3AvkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">As President Muizzu visits Delhi, Maldives opens inquiry into three key pacts signed with India</a></strong></p>

<p>In an optimistic tone, he pointed out, "I am confident that strengthened bilateral relations will further boost aspirations for the Maldives in the future.&nbsp;God willing, the strong ties between the two nations will result in increased prosperity for the Maldives and Maldivians alike."</p>

<p>President Muizzu was accompanied by a high-level government delegation. This marks his first official visit to India since assuming office in November of&nbsp; 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday, President Muizzu met with Prime Minister Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan, where both leaders engaged in discussions and were seen together at the banquet.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Maldives' Muizzu in Delhi, Male probes deals with India</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-muizzu-in-delhi-male-probes-deals-with-india-730596/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In his meeting with Indian President Droupadi Murmu, President Muizzu expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and acknowledged " India's continuous assistance to the Maldives", a Maldives government readout said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The readout pointed out that the president is "committed to preserving the close and historic ties with India, and conveyed that he looks forward to further strengthening existing relations between the two countries."</p>

<p>The discussions with India's External Affairs Minister, Dr S. Jaishankar also proved to be productive.</p>

<p>Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to boosting Maldives-India collaboration in the coming years.</p>

<p>Dr Jaishankar, in a post on X following the meeting, expressed his anticipation for closer cooperation between the two nations.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delighted to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu of Maldives today in New Delhi.<br />
<br />
Look forward to India and Maldives working together closely. <a href="https://twitter.com/MMuizzu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MMuizzu</a><br />
🇮🇳 🇲🇻 <a href="https://t.co/odHJPRK4Ks">pic.twitter.com/odHJPRK4Ks</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1800055835470803142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>President Muizzu's visit follows close on the heels of a recent visit by Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer to India.</p>

<p>These high-level visits signify a renewed vigour in the diplomatic relations between the two countries, which had experienced a temporary slack earlier this year.</p>


Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has hailed his two-day visit to India as a significant success, marking a positive step forward in the bilateral ties of the neighbouring countries.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has hailed his two-day visit to India as a significant success, marking a positive step forward in the bilateral ties of the neighbouring countries. President Muizzu was in New Delhi to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this Sunday. Speaking to the Maldives government broadcaster, PSM, he expressed his satisfaction with the visit and the outcomes achieved. Describing his trip as a triumph for both the Maldives and the broader region, President Muizzu said, "I was delighted to receive the PM's invitation and I am equally delighted to have been able to participate in the swearing-in ceremony. I am also really grateful for being able to hold high-level meetings with the PM, President, and EAM Jaishankar." Also read: As President Muizzu visits Delhi, Maldives opens inquiry into three key pacts signed with India In an optimistic tone, he pointed out, "I am confident that strengthened bilateral relations will further boost aspirations for the Maldives in the future. God willing, the strong ties between the two nations will result in increased prosperity for the Maldives and Maldivians alike." President Muizzu was accompanied by a high-level government delegation. This marks his first official visit to India since assuming office in November of 2023. On Sunday, President Muizzu met with Prime Minister Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan, where both leaders engaged in discussions and were seen together at the banquet. Watch: Maldives' Muizzu in Delhi, Male probes deals with India × In his meeting with Indian President Droupadi Murmu, President Muizzu expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and acknowledged " India's continuous assistance to the Maldives", a Maldives government readout said. The readout pointed out that the president is "committed to preserving the close and historic ties with India, and conveyed that he looks forward to further strengthening existing relations between the two countries." The discussions with India's External Affairs Minister, Dr S. Jaishankar also proved to be productive. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to boosting Maldives-India collaboration in the coming years. Dr Jaishankar, in a post on X following the meeting, expressed his anticipation for closer cooperation between the two nations. Delighted to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu of Maldives today in New Delhi. Look forward to India and Maldives working together closely. @MMuizzu 🇮🇳 🇲🇻 pic.twitter.com/odHJPRK4Ks — Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) June 10, 2024 × President Muizzu's visit follows close on the heels of a recent visit by Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer to India. These high-level visits signify a renewed vigour in the diplomatic relations between the two countries, which had experienced a temporary slack earlier this year.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu terms his India visit a success

<p>In an interview on Monday, Maldivian tourism minister Ibrahim Faisal asked Indians to visit the Maldives in big numbers, since the country's economy is heavily reliant on tourism.</p>

<p>His request sparked a trail of reactions from Indians on social media.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Requesting GOI to ban all the flights to Maldives from India. Instead, divert them to Lakshadweep.. <a href="https://t.co/JvvNmzs0E5">pic.twitter.com/JvvNmzs0E5</a></p>
— Crish Bhatia 🇮🇳 (@bhatiacrish___) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhatiacrish___/status/1787719161214390440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We have a history. So, when we needed anything, the Indian government was very helpful. Our newly elected government also wants to work together (with India). We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals," Faisal had told news agency PTI in an interview.</p>

<p>"I want to tell Indians to please be a part of Maldives' tourism. Our economy depends on tourism," the minister had said.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p dir="ltr" lang="qme"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottMaldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottMaldives</a> <a href="https://t.co/V1koYYYJ2l">pic.twitter.com/V1koYYYJ2l</a></p>
— Atim Gujar 🇮🇳 (@atimgujar240480) <a href="https://twitter.com/atimgujar240480/status/1787864488969965713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Due to a diplomatic impasse between the two nations, which resulted in a large-scale cancellation of airline and hotel reservations, the number of Indian tourists visiting Maldives dropped drastically.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They wanted India out so now they can live with the consequences. Better to spend your hard earned money in a country that respects you.</p>
— Hitz (@Hitzedude) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hitzedude/status/1787986018936721905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The diplomatic stalemate between India and the Maldives began after three Maldivian officials made negative comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had shared images and videos from his visit to the Lakshadweep Islands on his X account.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Without saying sorry to our P. M. How can he urge us</p>
— Garatala Varun (@VarunGaratala) <a href="https://twitter.com/VarunGaratala/status/1788030103890665781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidM3IOHQJW3Lh7" /><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/indian-tourist-arrivals-to-maldives-drop-by-over-50pc-713328" target="_blank">Indian tourist arrivals to Maldives&nbsp;drop&nbsp;by over 50&nbsp;per cent</a></strong></p>

<p>While the ministers were suspended by the Mohamed Muizzu administration, Indians protested the Maldives' tourism industry. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Mariyam Shiuna, Maldives’ deputy minister of youth empowerment, information and arts called PM Modi a "clown" and "puppet of Israel."</p>

<p>These comments sparked a widespread social media backlash.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bend it Like Modiji 🤣🤣<br />
<br />
Looking at their deteriorating economy, Maldives Tourism Minster has urged India that their country is DEPENDENT on tourism, hence requests people of India to come to Maldives. <a href="https://t.co/9wQu0vTq52">pic.twitter.com/9wQu0vTq52</a></p>
— Sheetal Chopra 🇮🇳 (@SheetalPronamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SheetalPronamo/status/1787704581272793570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Maldivian media reports, the number of tourist visits from India decreased by 42% in the first four months of 2024 as compared to the same period in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Relations between India and the Maldives were further strained when Mohamed Muizzu, shortly after assuming office, demanded the withdrawal of 88 Indian military personnel who managed the three aviation planes that India had gifted the Maldives.</p>

<p>Back from his visit to China in January of this year, Muizzu said, "We may be a small nation, but that doesn't give you the license to bully us.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an interview on Monday, Maldivian tourism minister Ibrahim Faisal asked Indians to visit the Maldives in big numbers, since the country's economy is heavily reliant on tourism.

In an interview on Monday, Maldivian tourism minister Ibrahim Faisal asked Indians to visit the Maldives in big numbers, since the country's economy is heavily reliant on tourism. His request sparked a trail of reactions from Indians on social media. Requesting GOI to ban all the flights to Maldives from India. Instead, divert them to Lakshadweep.. pic.twitter.com/JvvNmzs0E5 — Crish Bhatia 🇮🇳 (@bhatiacrish___) May 7, 2024 × "We have a history. So, when we needed anything, the Indian government was very helpful. Our newly elected government also wants to work together (with India). We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals," Faisal had told news agency PTI in an interview. "I want to tell Indians to please be a part of Maldives' tourism. Our economy depends on tourism," the minister had said. #BoycottMaldives pic.twitter.com/V1koYYYJ2l — Atim Gujar 🇮🇳 (@atimgujar240480) May 7, 2024 × Due to a diplomatic impasse between the two nations, which resulted in a large-scale cancellation of airline and hotel reservations, the number of Indian tourists visiting Maldives dropped drastically. They wanted India out so now they can live with the consequences. Better to spend your hard earned money in a country that respects you. — Hitz (@Hitzedude) May 7, 2024 × The diplomatic stalemate between India and the Maldives began after three Maldivian officials made negative comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had shared images and videos from his visit to the Lakshadweep Islands on his X account. Without saying sorry to our P. M. How can he urge us — Garatala Varun (@VarunGaratala) May 8, 2024 × Also read: Indian tourist arrivals to Maldives drop by over 50 per cent While the ministers were suspended by the Mohamed Muizzu administration, Indians protested the Maldives' tourism industry. Mariyam Shiuna, Maldives’ deputy minister of youth empowerment, information and arts called PM Modi a "clown" and "puppet of Israel." These comments sparked a widespread social media backlash. Bend it Like Modiji 🤣🤣 Looking at their deteriorating economy, Maldives Tourism Minster has urged India that their country is DEPENDENT on tourism, hence requests people of India to come to Maldives. pic.twitter.com/9wQu0vTq52 — Sheetal Chopra 🇮🇳 (@SheetalPronamo) May 7, 2024 × According to Maldivian media reports, the number of tourist visits from India decreased by 42% in the first four months of 2024 as compared to the same period in 2023. Relations between India and the Maldives were further strained when Mohamed Muizzu, shortly after assuming office, demanded the withdrawal of 88 Indian military personnel who managed the three aviation planes that India had gifted the Maldives. Back from his visit to China in January of this year, Muizzu said, "We may be a small nation, but that doesn't give you the license to bully us. (With inputs from agencies)

'Without saying sorry to our PM...': Indians troll minister who asked them to visit Maldives

<p>In an attempt to bring Indian tourists back, the Maldives will hold road shows in key Indian cities, as reported by PTI.</p>

<p>After the number of Indian tourists visiting&nbsp;Maldives decreased, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)&nbsp;met with India's High Commissioner, Munu Mahawar, to discuss ways&nbsp;of improving travel and tourism cooperation between the two nations.</p>

<p>The Maldives faced severe criticism after three Maldivian officials made derogatory comments about India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media after he shared&nbsp;images and videos of the&nbsp;Lakshadweep Islands on January 6.</p>

<h2><strong>Dwindling numbers&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Many Indians, including celebrities, cancelled their reservations and&nbsp;plans to visit the Maldives. Consequently, India, which was previously a top source of visitors, dropped to fifth place in tourism arrivals statistics for the Maldives, and now it stands at sixth place since January this year.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-fm-thanks-eam-indian-government-for-allowing-export-of-essential-commodities-708363">Also read |&nbsp;Maldives FM thanks Indian government, EAM for allowing export of essential commodities</a></p>

<p>As of April 10,&nbsp;the Maldives&nbsp;Ministry of Tourism reported that out of the total 663,269 tourists arriving, China had the highest number at 71,995, followed by the United Kingdom, Russia, Italy, Germany, and India.</p>

<p>Following talks at a meeting held at the Indian High Commission in Male, MATATO stated its desire to work closely with the Indian High Commission in the Maldives to strengthen tourism efforts, as reported by Sun.mv news portal.</p>

<p>“In this trajectory, plans are currently underway to launch comprehensive road shows across key Indian cities and to facilitate influencer and media familiarisation trips to the Maldives in the upcoming months,” it said quoting from the statement.</p>

<p>“While India remains a crucial tourist market to the Maldives, MATATO states they look forward to partnering with prominent travel associations and industry stakeholders across India to further promote the Maldives as a premier travel destination,” the news portal further added.</p>

<p>The Association also viewed its meeting with the Indian High Commissioner as evidence of MATATO's ongoing commitment to strengthening tourism connections between the Maldives and India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before this diplomatic dispute arose, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, shortly after taking office last November, requested India to withdraw its 88 military personnel from the country, citing concerns about their presence threatening Maldives' sovereignty.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Suspended Maldives Minister Shiuna apologises after making anti-India remarks</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suspended-maldives-minister-shiuna-apologises-after-making-anti-india-remarks-709120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an attempt to bring Indian tourists back, the Maldives will hold road shows in key Indian cities, as reported by PTI. After the number of Indian tourists visiting Maldives decreased, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) met with India's High Commissioner, Munu Mahawar, to discuss ways of improving travel and tourism cooperation between the two nations.

In an attempt to bring Indian tourists back, the Maldives will hold road shows in key Indian cities, as reported by PTI. After the number of Indian tourists visiting Maldives decreased, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) met with India's High Commissioner, Munu Mahawar, to discuss ways of improving travel and tourism cooperation between the two nations. The Maldives faced severe criticism after three Maldivian officials made derogatory comments about India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media after he shared images and videos of the Lakshadweep Islands on January 6. Dwindling numbers Many Indians, including celebrities, cancelled their reservations and plans to visit the Maldives. Consequently, India, which was previously a top source of visitors, dropped to fifth place in tourism arrivals statistics for the Maldives, and now it stands at sixth place since January this year. Also read | Maldives FM thanks Indian government, EAM for allowing export of essential commodities As of April 10, the Maldives Ministry of Tourism reported that out of the total 663,269 tourists arriving, China had the highest number at 71,995, followed by the United Kingdom, Russia, Italy, Germany, and India. Following talks at a meeting held at the Indian High Commission in Male, MATATO stated its desire to work closely with the Indian High Commission in the Maldives to strengthen tourism efforts, as reported by Sun.mv news portal. “In this trajectory, plans are currently underway to launch comprehensive road shows across key Indian cities and to facilitate influencer and media familiarisation trips to the Maldives in the upcoming months,” it said quoting from the statement. “While India remains a crucial tourist market to the Maldives, MATATO states they look forward to partnering with prominent travel associations and industry stakeholders across India to further promote the Maldives as a premier travel destination,” the news portal further added. The Association also viewed its meeting with the Indian High Commissioner as evidence of MATATO's ongoing commitment to strengthening tourism connections between the Maldives and India. Before this diplomatic dispute arose, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, shortly after taking office last November, requested India to withdraw its 88 military personnel from the country, citing concerns about their presence threatening Maldives' sovereignty. Also watch | Suspended Maldives Minister Shiuna apologises after making anti-India remarks (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives plans road shows in India to attract tourists back

India will always be a reliable security partner for the Maldives, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said here on Sunday, as the Centre signed a USD 50 million defence Line of Credit agreement with the island nation to facilitate capability building in the maritime domain.

India signs USD 50 million defence LoC agreement to boost maritime capabilities of Maldives

India has extended the loan of $250 Million to the island nation Maldives to help it deal with the COVID-19 impact. The loan has been extended on favourable terms.

India extends $250 Million soft loan to the island nation Maldives

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday India and Maldives as close friends and neighbours will continue to support each other in their fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-extends-250-million-loan-to-maldives-to-deal-with-covid-economic-impact-without-conditions-328853">India extends $250 million loan to Maldives to deal with COVID economic impact 'without conditions'</a></strong></p>

<p>Modi was responding to a tweet by Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in which he expressed his thanks to the prime minister for India's financial assistance to his country.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Appreciate your warm sentiments, President <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ibusolih</a>! As close friends and neighbours, India and Maldives will continue to support each other in our fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19. <a href="https://t.co/esNRBWJxZg">https://t.co/esNRBWJxZg</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1307885162642853888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"India has always risen to the occasion whenever Maldives needed a friend. My sincere thanks to PM @narendramodi, government and people of India for their neighborly spirit and generosity following the official handover of USD250 million as financial assistance today," Solih said.</p>

<p>Modi replied, "Appreciate your warm sentiments, President @ibusolih! As close friends and neighbours, India and Maldives will continue to support each other in our fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19."&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday India and Maldives as close friends and neighbours will continue to support each other in their fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday India and Maldives as close friends and neighbours will continue to support each other in their fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19. Also read | India extends $250 million loan to Maldives to deal with COVID economic impact 'without conditions' Modi was responding to a tweet by Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in which he expressed his thanks to the prime minister for India's financial assistance to his country. Appreciate your warm sentiments, President @ibusolih! As close friends and neighbours, India and Maldives will continue to support each other in our fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19. https://t.co/esNRBWJxZg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 21, 2020 × "India has always risen to the occasion whenever Maldives needed a friend. My sincere thanks to PM @narendramodi, government and people of India for their neighborly spirit and generosity following the official handover of USD250 million as financial assistance today," Solih said. Modi replied, "Appreciate your warm sentiments, President @ibusolih! As close friends and neighbours, India and Maldives will continue to support each other in our fight against the health and economic impact of COVID-19."

India, Maldives will support each other in fight against health, economic impact of COVID-19: PM Modi

<p>India and Maldives have agreed to create an "air travel bubble" to facilitate movement of people between the two countries. Maldives is the first neighboring country with which India has operationalised an air bubble.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is expected to help in the movement of people from both sides for employment, tourism, medical emergencies etc.</p>

<p>The announcement was made after the video meet between India's External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jaishankar (EAM) and Maldives Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid.</p>

<p>During the virtual meet, Maldives FM thanked the Indian government for "including the Maldives among the first countries with which India has established an Air Bubble" and emphasised the "importance of easing travel, especially for Maldivians seeking to visit India for urgently required medical treatment, as well as Indian tourists wishing to visit the Maldives "</p>

<p>India already has Transport Air Bubbles with US, France, UK and Germany. Amidst coronavirus pandemic, international air travel has been hit hard and countries like India have been focussing on creation of air bubbles for safer travel and before normal air travel resumes.</p>


India and Maldives have agreed to create an "air travel bubble" to facilitate movement of people between the two countries. Maldives is the first neighboring country with which India has operationalised an air bubble.

India and Maldives have agreed to create an "air travel bubble" to facilitate movement of people between the two countries. Maldives is the first neighboring country with which India has operationalised an air bubble. This is expected to help in the movement of people from both sides for employment, tourism, medical emergencies etc. The announcement was made after the video meet between India's External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jaishankar (EAM) and Maldives Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid. During the virtual meet, Maldives FM thanked the Indian government for "including the Maldives among the first countries with which India has established an Air Bubble" and emphasised the "importance of easing travel, especially for Maldivians seeking to visit India for urgently required medical treatment, as well as Indian tourists wishing to visit the Maldives " India already has Transport Air Bubbles with US, France, UK and Germany. Amidst coronavirus pandemic, international air travel has been hit hard and countries like India have been focussing on creation of air bubbles for safer travel and before normal air travel resumes.

India, Maldives announce air travel bubble -- first in the neighbourhood

<p>Maldives Parliament Speaker and former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-china-fta-is-dead-speaker-of-maldivian-parliament-mohamed-nasheed-tells-wion-268187">Mohamed Nasheed </a>said on Saturday that the governments of India and Maldives are "on the same page" and the future of their ties is "bright".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The speaker is on a five-day visit to India on the joint invitation of Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Lok Sabha (Lower House) Speaker Om Birla.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India has been next to us since time immemorial. We read the same book. We eat the same food. We watch the same films we do the same things. We are the same people," Nasheed said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former president further said that he would consider the relations between both the countries "bad" only when Maldivians stop "watching Bollywood movies and eating gulab jamuns".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But that`s not happening any time soon," Nasheed said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasheed is leading the parliamentary delegation from the Maldives who is on a visit to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Maldivian speaker&nbsp;also criticised China for lending a hefty amount of funds to the Maldives at "inflated prices" in the last 6-7 years, adding that the debt created by it is unequal and the country can't pay the debt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you are unable to pay debt, they ask for equity and with equity we very often relinquish land and sovereignty. It's a serious case. There is a pattern for this. We're worried and want Chinese authorities to address the issue appropriately, the speaker added.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Speaker of Maldives parliament Mohamed Nasheed: When you are unable to pay debt,they ask for equity&amp;with equity we very often relinquish land&amp;sovereignty. It's a serious case.There is a pattern for this.We're worried&amp;want Chinese authorities to address issue appropriately.(2/2) <a href="https://t.co/H3LnbNVM2y">https://t.co/H3LnbNVM2y</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205669276419362816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On Friday, the speaker met <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-mohamed-nasheed-calls-on-pm-modi-reaffirms-unwavering-support-to-india-first-policy-268178">PM Narendra Modi </a>and thanked him for his continued support for stronger India-Maldives ties since the formation of the new government in the Maldives.</p>

<p>PM Modi welcomed the Maldivian speaker and said that the "engagement between the two parliaments is a key component of the vibrant India-Maldives relationship". PM Modi added that this visit will help consolidate bridges of friendship between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasheed also reaffirmed his "unwavering support" to the Maldives "India First" policy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(<em>with ANI inputs)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Maldives Parliament Speaker and former president Mohamed Nasheed said on Saturday that the governments of India and Maldives are "on the same page" and the future of their ties is "bright".

Maldives Parliament Speaker and former president Mohamed Nasheed said on Saturday that the governments of India and Maldives are "on the same page" and the future of their ties is "bright". The speaker is on a five-day visit to India on the joint invitation of Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Lok Sabha (Lower House) Speaker Om Birla. "India has been next to us since time immemorial. We read the same book. We eat the same food. We watch the same films we do the same things. We are the same people," Nasheed said. The former president further said that he would consider the relations between both the countries "bad" only when Maldivians stop "watching Bollywood movies and eating gulab jamuns". "But that`s not happening any time soon," Nasheed said. Nasheed is leading the parliamentary delegation from the Maldives who is on a visit to India. The Maldivian speaker also criticised China for lending a hefty amount of funds to the Maldives at "inflated prices" in the last 6-7 years, adding that the debt created by it is unequal and the country can't pay the debt. "When you are unable to pay debt, they ask for equity and with equity we very often relinquish land and sovereignty. It's a serious case. There is a pattern for this. We're worried and want Chinese authorities to address the issue appropriately, the speaker added. Speaker of Maldives parliament Mohamed Nasheed: When you are unable to pay debt,they ask for equity&with equity we very often relinquish land&sovereignty. It's a serious case.There is a pattern for this.We're worried&want Chinese authorities to address issue appropriately.(2/2) https://t.co/H3LnbNVM2y — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2019 × On Friday, the speaker met PM Narendra Modi and thanked him for his continued support for stronger India-Maldives ties since the formation of the new government in the Maldives. PM Modi welcomed the Maldivian speaker and said that the "engagement between the two parliaments is a key component of the vibrant India-Maldives relationship". PM Modi added that this visit will help consolidate bridges of friendship between the two nations. Nasheed also reaffirmed his "unwavering support" to the Maldives "India First" policy. (with ANI inputs)

India, Maldives on same page; future of ties 'bright': Former President Mohamed Nasheed