Modi's Tourism Promotion Sparks Diplomatic Row Between India and Maldives

Maldivian officials suspended after derogatory comments, as tensions rise amid potential shift towards China.

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.