PM Modi’s visit to Maldives | Gist of Rajya Sabha TV / RSTV (now Sansad TV) - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

Key Objectives

• Strengthen bilateral ties post-diplomatic reset with a focus on mutual respect.
• Advance economic cooperation through an FTA and investment treaty.
• Enhance maritime security to counter regional threats and Chinese influence.
• Promote sustainable development in renewable energy, MSMEs, and youth empowerment.

Key Highlights

• Historic Visit: Modi is the first foreign leader to visit since Muizu’s 2023 inauguration.
• Diplomatic Reset: Overcomes initial “India out” stance for pragmatic cooperation.
• Neighborhood First: India’s patient diplomacy rebuilds trust through aid and projects.
• Economic Boost: FTA talks aim to deepen $500M bilateral trade.
• Renewable Energy: India’s solar and wind expertise supports Maldives’ sustainability.
• Maritime Security: Joint exercises and capacity building counter regional threats.
• Stable Partnership: Focus on long-term mutual benefits and sovereignty respect.

Key Insights

1. Geopolitical Realities Prevail
   The Maldives’ initial pivot toward China was unsustainable due to reliance on India for connectivity, healthcare, and imports, highlighting the limits of small states’ geopolitical maneuvers.

2. Patient Diplomacy Wins Trust
   India’s restraint and focus on grassroots projects like infrastructure and humanitarian aid rebuilt goodwill, contrasting with China’s transactional approach.

3. Economic Integration for Stability
   The proposed FTA and investment treaty leverage Maldives’ fisheries and tourism with India’s digital and renewable energy strengths, fostering jobs and economic resilience.

4. Renewable Energy Solutions
   India’s solar and wind expertise addresses the Maldives’ unique island energy challenges, aligning with India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance.

5. Strategic Maritime Security
   The Maldives’ location drives India’s focus on naval cooperation to prevent Chinese military presence and ensure Indian Ocean stability.

6. Tackling Non-Traditional Threats
   Collaboration on radicalism, drug addiction, and illegal fishing addresses shared security concerns, promoting long-term regional peace.

7. Respect for Sovereignty
   India’s sensitivity to Maldives’ concerns, like reducing troop presence, fosters a partnership based on equality and trust, vital for sustainable ties.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Challenges: Navigating Maldives’ domestic politics, countering Chinese influence, and ensuring FTA benefits are mutual.
• Opportunities: Deepening economic ties, enhancing maritime security, and promoting sustainable development through India’s expertise.

Conclusion