"India Out" before, "India Thanks" now

Aug 11, 2024, 5:50 AM
Modi and Muizzu.

Modi and Muizzu.

After a campaign for the removal of Indian military personnel and verbal attacks aimed at the Indian government, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has finally thanked India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

President Muizzu and the leaders of this government led the 'India Out' campaign and paraded in the streets of Male' with puppets mocking Modi.

Following his visit to China, President Muizzu verbally attacked India by stating that the Maldives is not in the backyard of any particular country.

The President also claimed that he would end the dependence on India by stopping the import of medicine from India and travelling to India for medical purposes.

He accused the government of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of following orders from India.

Just nine months after assuming office through a campaign of hate towards India, President Muizzu, on Saturday, finally thanked India for its continuous assistance.

He met Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and said the two countries were working to strengthen relations.

"I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for always supporting the Maldives," Muizzu posted on X after the meeting.

"It was a pleasure to meet Dr. S. Jaishankar today and join him in the official handover of water and sewerage projects in 28 islands of the Maldives," he said.

The 28 projects inaugurated yesterday were implemented during the former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government.

During the meeting with Jaishankar, President Muizzu said the people of Maldives welcome the close relationship with India.

"Our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together, we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region."

Jaishankar's visit comes at a time when the two countries have started working on restoring ties after increased tensions during the early days of the People's National Congress (PNC) government.

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