Have Maldives and Sri Lankan Leaders Shifted Their Anti-India Stance Under PM Modi's Charm?
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Synopsis
Maldives and Sri Lankan leaders, previously known for their anti-India stance, have shifted towards a more amicable relationship with India, thanks to PM Modi's diplomatic efforts. This significant change highlights evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean region and the importance of India-Maldives-Sri Lanka relations in addressing shared challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Modi's diplomatic charm has prompted a shift in Maldives and Sri Lanka's policies towards India.
- Both leaders have expressed gratitude for India's support during economic challenges.
- Increasing ministerial visits from Maldives to India highlight strengthening ties.
- The geopolitical landscape in the Indian Ocean is evolving with India's growing influence.
- China's role remains significant, raising concerns for Indian interests.
Colombo, July 30 (NationPress) Under the captivating influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic charm, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake—both previously advocates of a strong anti-India stance—have remarkably altered their attitudes towards New Delhi, as reported by Lankan media on Wednesday.
This transformation was highlighted during Dissanayake's ongoing State Visit to the Maldives from July 28 to 30, which followed PM Modi's significant visit to Male last week.
With Modi's visit to the Maldives concluding, Sri Lanka's pro-China JVP leader, President Anura, traveled to the Maldives at the Maldivian President’s invitation. The shift in Anura and the JVP mirrors the change seen with the Maldivian President, both having previously endorsed anti-India policies before assuming office, according to Mawrata News.
During his inaugural foreign visit as President in December, Dissanayake expressed gratitude to India for its substantial support amid an economic crisis and assured PM Modi that he would prevent the island from being used in ways harmful to Indian interests.
On July 25, PM Modi arrived in Male for a two-day State Visit to partake in the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour.
This was PM Modi's third visit to the Maldives—following trips in 2018 and 2019—and the first by a Head of State during Mohamed Muizzu’s presidency, which began in November 2023.
In a notable gesture, President Muizzu welcomed PM Modi at the Male airport upon his arrival from the UK, with key ministers also present to greet him.
Breaking from tradition, Muizzu did not choose India for his initial State Visit as President, indicating a clear foreign policy shift. Furthermore, he allowed the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3—viewed as a surveillance ship—to dock in Maldivian waters, raising Indian concerns about potential intelligence gathering.
Nonetheless, Muizzu's five-day visit to India in October—his second trip in four months after attending PM Modi's swearing-in—demonstrated a significant diplomatic pivot. Previously supporting the 'India Out' campaign, Muizzu now seeks to navigate complex relations while balancing China's influence.
This year alone, New Delhi has welcomed nearly six ministerial visits from the Maldives in the first half. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar's first engagement in 2025 was with Maldives' Foreign Minister.
As Mawrata News reported, Modi viewed Maldives as a younger brother who would eventually reconcile after a period of anger. Ultimately, the Maldivian President turned to India to seek assistance with the nation's economic crisis, and Modi, putting aside past grievances, extended his help.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the evolving dynamics in Maldives and Sri Lanka's foreign policy. While past grievances linger, the current trend towards cooperation with India signifies a pragmatic approach to regional stability. Both nations seem to be aligning their interests with India, acknowledging its importance in addressing mutual challenges. This diplomatic shift could pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future in the Indian Ocean region.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the shift in Maldives and Sri Lanka's stance towards India?
The diplomatic efforts of PM Modi, particularly his recent visits to the Maldives and engagement with Sri Lankan leadership, have significantly influenced this shift, encouraging leaders to reconsider their previous anti-India policies.
What are the implications of this shift for regional geopolitics?
This shift could lead to enhanced cooperation between India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka, potentially countering Chinese influence in the region and fostering stability in the Indian Ocean.
How have India-Maldives relations evolved recently?
India-Maldives relations have seen a revival, with multiple ministerial visits and support from India during economic crises, indicating a mutually beneficial partnership.
What does this mean for China's role in the region?
The warming ties between India and its neighbors may challenge China's influence, as Maldives and Sri Lanka navigate their relationships with both India and China.
Will the new diplomatic approach last?
While the change indicates a positive trend, ongoing geopolitical dynamics will determine the longevity of this new diplomatic approach.
