Change Of Heart: Maldivian President Seeks Debt Relief From ‘Closest Ally’ India

New Delhi: After months of anti-India rhetoric, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu did a u-turn, calling New Delhi its “closest ally” while seeking, in the same breathe, a debt relief on the $400 million in outstanding dues.

In an interview with local news portal, Muizzu said India was instrumental in providing aid to the Maldives and has implemented the “greatest number” of projects. “The conditions we have inherited are such that there are very large loans taken from India. Hence, we are holding discussions to explore leniencies in the repayment structure of these loans. Instead of halting any ongoing projects … to proceed with them at speed, so I see no reason for any adverse effects (on Maldives-India relations),” he said.

The pro-China Maldivian leader further stated that he has not taken any action or made any statements that may strain the relationship between the two countries, Edition.mv reported.

Within hours of assuming office, Muizzu pursued a hardline stand towards India and demanded for repatriation of 88 Indian military personnel operating three aviation platforms in his country by May 10. The first batch of Indian military personnel left the island nation this month as planned.

His conciliatory remarks towards India also assumes significance with Parliament elections in Maldives slated for mid-April.