Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer has said that the relations between India and Maldives remain strong despite a controversy involving government officials making derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Heated exchanges have been taking place on X between some top officials of the Maldivian government and Indian citizens and troll accounts. The spat was kicked off by a video posted by Modi to promote tourism in Lakshadweep.
Meanwhile, a social media campaign against Maldives tourism, joined by Bollywood stars, is underway.
Deputy Youth Ministers Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Mahzoom Majid have now been suspended over their posts mocking Modi.
Speaking to Adhadhu outside the President's Office after today's cabinet meeting, Zameer said the government's stand has been clarified in a statement.
“The government is now taking action against the officials who expressed such views,” Zameer said.
He further said the Indian government has not raised any concerns and relations between the two governments remain strong.
“We have very friendly relations and we are still talking about the assistance and cooperation we need from each other,” Zameer added.
While President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is scheduled to depart for China tonight, Zameer said the President would visit India at a later date.
In the past, Maldivian Presidents usually made their first official visit to neighboring India. But Muizzu is making his first state visit to China.
