Male : In a significant foreign policy shift, Maldives has pivoted from its recent pro-China stance back towards fostering closer ties with India. This change comes under the leadership of President Mohamed Muizzu, who previously led an "India Out" campaign.

President Muizzu, who had been known for his alignment with China, recently expressed gratitude to India for aiding the resumption of medical evacuation services with civilian aviation personnel from India. This gesture follows India’s assistance in debt relief as the Maldives negotiates a free trade agreement.

Adding to this diplomatic thaw, Maldives' Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal visited India to conduct a series of promotional roadshows aimed at reviving tourism from India. This new campaign, named "Welcome India," marks a stark contrast to the recent past when Indian celebrities and citizens were promoting a "Boycott Maldives" campaign. This boycott was in response to disparaging remarks made by some Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The "Boycott Maldives" campaign had a noticeable impact on tourist arrivals from India, a critical market for the Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy. However, the recent shift in tone from the Maldivian government appears to be an effort to mend these strained ties.

International relations experts note that this change in Maldives’ stance has been gradual but evident. President Muizzu, who had initially adopted an anti-India position, seems to be steering the country towards a friendlier relationship with New Delhi.

In an unexpected move during his Independence Day speech, President Muizzu thanked India for its support in easing the Maldives' debt repayment, emphasizing the importance of economic sovereignty. He also expressed optimism about forging stronger bilateral ties and signing a free trade agreement, alongside negotiating a currency swap agreement with India.

This diplomatic about-face comes after a period of strained relations, during which Muizzu had called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives by May 10, 2024. These personnel were operating platforms for helicopters and a Dornier aircraft used primarily for medical evacuations. India complied with this request, repatriating its military personnel ahead of the deadline.

However, the decision to end Indian military presence raised concerns about the Maldives' capability to handle medical emergencies. Recently, the Maldivian government resumed using the Dornier aircraft and two helicopters, gifted by India, for medical evacuations. This resumption was facilitated by an understanding reached between the two nations regarding the repatriation of Indian military personnel.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) confirmed the resumption of medical evacuation services with the civilian crew sent from India. The move followed local criticism of the government for not utilizing the aircraft and helicopters for medical emergencies.

As Maldives navigates this crucial diplomatic juncture, the renewed cooperation with India reflects a strategic decision to reinforce the intricate cultural, economic, and geopolitical ties that bind the two neighboring nations in the Indian Ocean.