Amid an escalating diplomatic row between India and the Maldives, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar addressed the issue during a town hall event in Nagpur, underscoring the unpredictable nature of international politics.
Speaking about the recent controversial remarks made by multiple Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he visits Lakshadweep, Jaishankar emphasized the complexities of diplomatic relationships. "Politics is politics," he remarked, acknowledging that not every nation can be guaranteed to always support India's interests.
Responding to questions about India's strategy in safeguarding its interests despite changes in foreign governments, Jaishankar highlighted the "neighborhood first policy." He explained that the focus is on building strong connections, stating, "What we're trying to do, and with a lot of success in the last 10 years, is to build a very strong connection."
Addressing the issue of the recent deterioration in diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of ensuring that people in foreign nations maintain positive sentiments towards India. He stressed that a strong connect can weather changes in political landscapes, fostering understanding and healthy ties.
The remarks from the External Affairs Minister come as tensions between India and the Maldives escalate. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu recently proposed the withdrawal of Indian military presence from the island nation before March 15. This proposal followed Muizzu's visit to China, where he referred to the country as one of the "closest allies" of the Maldives and took a veiled swipe at India, stating that no nation had the right to "bully" his country.
Confirming the development, senior Maldivian official Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim stated, "Indian military personnel cannot stay in the Maldives. This is the policy of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and that of this administration."
