A dream dive in Maldives has turned into what may be the country’s deadliest single scuba tragedy, after five Italian divers, including elite researchers and one of Italy’s top diving experts, were lost deep inside a submerged cave system in Vaavu Atoll. What happened 50 metres underwater?

Five Italian divers killed in Maldives cave tragedy after scuba expedition turns deadly

In an exclusive conversation with WION, India and the Maldives reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across key sectors including trade, defence, connectivity, and regional security. The discussions also highlighted efforts to deepen maritime partnership in the Indian Ocean region, boost economic ties, and enhance collaboration on climate change and tourism development, reflecting growing strategic engagement between the two nations.


Exclusive: India & Maldives Commit to Stronger Bilateral Cooperation

Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam acknowledged the recent financial support amid the West Asia conflict’s fallout on supply chains, food, fuel and medicine. The Maldives government settled previous debts, including $50 million payments due to India in April and September.

Maldives eyes India FTA signing by end of 2026, says Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed has signalled a major political comeback as he seeks a leadership role within the MDP ahead of the 2028 elections. In an interview with WION, Nasheed stressed the need for structural reforms to the Maldives’ 2008 constitution while warning against democratic backsliding. He also spoke about India-Maldives ties, regional security in the Indian Ocean, and concerns over the current government’s handling of financial assistance.

Nasheed, Ex-Maldives President, Eyes MDP Leadership, Backs Constitutional Reforms 

US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor, who also serves as US ambassador to India, arrived in the capital Malé as part of a regional tour that included Sri Lanka. The trip was intended to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between Washington and the Maldives.

Amid West Asia War, Maldives cancelled meeting with US envoy Gor last month

Maldives is upbeat about its economic perspectives. Real GDP growth is projected at 5.3% for 2026, supported by major infrastructure projects, including the completion of a new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport and upgrades to Hanimaadhoo International Airport.

Maldives pays off $500mn Islamic bond, expresses confidence to deal with challenge from West Asia war

Mauritius has announced the suspension of diplomatic relations with Maldives amid escalating political and strategic differences. The move marks a significant shift in Indian Ocean geopolitics, potentially impacting regional cooperation, trade ties and multilateral engagement.


Mauritius-Maldives relations: Mauritius suspends diplomatic relations with Maldives 

Maldives offers US continued Diego Garcia base access if Chagos shifts from UK to Maldives, challenging UK-Mauritius deal, as Trump raises national security concerns over Indian Ocean control dynamics geopolitics.

Maldives’ Muizzu has deal for Trump amid US-UK dispute over control of island bases. This is what he offers

At Davos 2026, Maldives’ Economic Development and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed speaks exclusively to WION in a conversation with Siddhant Sibal. The minister discusses Maldives’ economic priorities, trade strategy, investment outlook, and the challenges facing small island nations in a shifting global economy.


Davos 2026: Economic Development & Trade Minister of Maldives, Mohamed Saeed Speaks to WION 

Former Maldivian VP Faisal Naseem stressed close collaboration on maritime security, including illegal fishing and other threats in the Indian Ocean. We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean from illegal fishing and other things that are harming the people, he added.

‘India has been our closest ally and partner:’ Former Maldives VP Naseem

In a festive twist, Malaysia’s Santa Claus has swapped his traditional sleigh for scuba gear, delighting crowds at Aquaria KLCC in Kuala Lumpur. The “Scuba Santa” dives into the aquarium’s main tank, feeding fish and spreading holiday cheer as part of the annual Christmas festivities.

Malaysia’s Underwater Santa Attracts Festive Crowds

Maldives, with a population of just over half a million, has become the world’s first nation to ban smoking for an entire generation. The new law, effective Nov 1, prohibits anyone born after Jan 1, 2007—including tourists—from buying or using tobacco. All you need to know.

THIS country has banned smoking for everyone born after 2007 — even tourists

Their airspace remains unpatrolled by high-speed jets, yet their sovereignty and safety are maintained through careful planning and international cooperation.

7 countries that don’t own a single fighter jet. Here’s why


The Maldives is battling a severe crisis of plastic pollution. Decades of plastic waste, such as plastic bottles, fishing nets, packaging waste, is threatening to turn the paradise into a plastic pit. The island nation is also facing the threat of an alarming rise in sea levels due to global warming. Experts warn rising sea temperatures may sink the maldives by 2100 


Maldives' Plastic Pollution | Maldives Could Sink By 2100, Warn Expert

For all island lovers, here are the top islands offering stunning beaches, clear waters, rich culture, and unique wildlife. Perfect for adventure, relaxation, and nature lovers seeking unforgettable tropical escapes filled with beauty and warm island vibes.

10 Beautiful islands around the world that look too perfect to be real

PM Modi to visit Maldives from July 25–26, United Kingdom to discuss bilateral relations

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