Could The Sudden Thaw In India-Maldives Ties Lead To Return Of Indian Tourists?

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, on his first bilateral visit to India, has reassured that his country's 'Maldives First' policy will not impinge on its longstanding relationship with India. Addressing a press briefing at the Hyderabad House after his talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Muizzu said that he hoped more Indian tourists will visit the archipelago nation, adding that India is one of the largest tourism source markets for the Maldives. The Maldivian President's remarks during his ongoing India visit assume significance as in January this year, a 'Boycott Maldives' online campaign had picked up traction after a few Maldivian ministers had made comments against PM Modi. The campaign had the desired impact with the flow of Indian tourists to Maldives falling by a massive 43% in the first six months of 2024.