At 'Pre-Arranged' Meet, Indian Envoy Told Remarks Against PM Modi Do Not Represent Maldives' Views

The Maldivian government on Monday told India’s High Commissioner Munu Mahawar that the derogatory remarks made by now-suspended ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi do not represent the island country’s views.

Ambassador Mahawar met Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed, the Ambassador-at-Large at the Foreign Ministry, the Sun Online reported. “High Commissioner Munu Mahawar had a pre-arranged meeting with H.E. Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed, Ambassador at Large, at MoFA, Maldives, today to discuss bilateral issues,” the Indian mission in Maldives wrote on X.

A senior Maldivian official said that during the meeting, Naseer made it clear that the remarks do not reflect the views of the Maldivian government, and reaffirmed Maldives’ continued support for its neighbour, the outlet reported. The Maldivian foreign ministry said the government is aware of “derogatory remarks” on social media platforms against foreign leaders and that the personal views do not represent its position.

The meeting came hours after India summoned Maldivian envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb and conveyed strong concern over remarks posted on social media against the PM by several ministers. Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid three deputy ministers at the Youth Ministry had made derogatory remarks against India and PM Modi on social media platform X, in response to a video promoting tourism in Lakshadweep.

The three ministers were suspended on Sunday after the remarks sparked an uproar on Indian social media. In New Delhi, the Indian high commission in Male strongly raised the matter with the Maldivian foreign ministry on Sunday. After disparaging remarks by the ministers, there were also posts on social media claiming that some Indians are cancelling their scheduled trip to the Maldives following the diplomatic row. Many Indian celebrities took to social media condemning the comments.

Last year, Indians made up the largest number of tourists visiting the Maldives, which is famous for its luxury island resorts and white sandy beaches. India is also a strategic ally, with military personnel and helicopters stationed on the islands, but relations have deteriorated since Muizzu, who is considered to be pro-Chinese, was elected in November.

Senior Maldivian politician Qasim Ibrahim said the “behaviour” of three officials goes against the principles of diplomacy and mutual respect, warning that the incident has the potential to negatively impact the long-standing bond between the two nations. Ibrahim stressed that India has consistently been a steadfast friend to Maldives, and it is important that the Island nation uphold the values of friendship and goodwill that have defined these ties for centuries.

(With agency inputs)