MALE, Maldives: Diplomatic relations between Maldives and India undergo strain, President Mohamed Muizzu has declared a reduction in dependency on India for healthcare and medicine. In a media interview in Male, Muizzu announced plans to decrease reliance on a select group of countries, with a shift towards supporting treatment options in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
While not explicitly naming India, Muizzu’s statement suggests a diversification of healthcare partnerships. Currently, a significant portion of pharmaceuticals in the Maldives is imported from India. The president indicated an intention to import medicines from the United States and European nations as part of the strategy to broaden the country’s healthcare supply chains.
The move comes amid escalating tensions, with Muizzu having previously requested India to withdraw its troops by March 15. The deadline was established during talks between Maldivian and Indian officials, aligning with the president’s longstanding election pledge to evict Indian forces. The proposal is currently under consideration, as confirmed by Muizzu’s Public Policy Secretary Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim.
While historically within India’s sphere of influence, the Maldives has shifted towards closer ties with China, its largest external creditor. This geopolitical realignment has contributed to the evolving diplomatic dynamics between Maldives and India.
