India Plans Grand Welcome for Maldives President at PM Modi’s Swearing-In Amid Strained Ties

PM Modi is set to be sworn in for a historic third term on Sunday, with the attendance of several heads of state at the ceremony, including Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu. Ever since Muizzu assumed office in November last year, relations between India and Maldives have deteriorated, leading to the departure of all Indian armed forces from the nation, with civilians now in their place.

Despite the strained relations, India extended an olive branch by inviting President Muizzu to the swearing-in ceremony of PM Modi. In response, Muizzu expressed his gratitude for the invitation and stated that he would be honored to attend the historic event.

He also expressed his anticipation of working with PM Modi to further strengthen the close relations with India, emphasizing the positive direction in which Maldives-India relations are heading. This official visit to India will mark the first for President Muizzu since he took office, as he had initially visited Turkey and China for his first state visit.

The upcoming swearing-in ceremony is expected to be attended by leaders from neighboring countries, such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, Mauritius, Seychelles, and the Maldives, in line with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Delhi has also been adorned with posters featuring PM Modi alongside other Asian leaders attending the event.