Overview

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's social media posts promoting the Lakshadweep archipelago as a tourist destination sparked controversy in the Maldives, with officials there viewing it as an attempt to divert tourists from their country.
• In response to derogatory comments made by Maldivian officials, Indian travel portal EaseMyTrip suspended bookings for flights to the Maldives in a show of solidarity with the nation.
• The Maldivian officials were subsequently suspended by the country's president for their comments, highlighting the fragile nature of the relationship between India and the Maldives.
• Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, seen as pro-Chinese, recently described Beijing as the island nation’s 'closest' ally and urged increased Chinese investment in the Maldives, signaling a potential shift in policy.
• Experts suggest that the Maldives cannot afford to distance India, as Indian tourists comprised nearly 11% of its tourism market last year and the country has Indian military personnel stationed on its islands.