In a noteworthy development, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has accepted the invitation to attend Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration for his third term on June 9. President Muizzu will be joined by three members of his cabinet, including Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer. This visit marks his first trip to India since assuming office.
Emphasis on Neighbourhood Relations
India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy is evident in the list of invitees. Leaders from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, the Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Sri Lanka have all been invited. This approach underscores India’s focus on enhancing cooperation with its neighbors, particularly island nations in the Indian Ocean.
Initial reports suggested that only five leaders would be invited. However, sources later confirmed that the Maldives and Seychelles were also added to the list. This decision highlights India’s strategic interest in strengthening ties with these countries.
Confirmed Attendance
Several leaders confirmed their attendance even before formal invitations were issued. Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and Sri Lanka’s President Ranil Wickremesinghe were among the first to commit. Prime Minister Hasina, initially misinformed about the ceremony date, adjusted her travel plans to ensure her presence on June 9.
A Surprising Acceptance
President Muizzu’s acceptance of the invitation is particularly surprising given the recent strained relations between India and the Maldives. Since his election, Muizzu has shifted the Maldives closer to China and initiated the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the archipelago. Despite these tensions, India’s invitation to Muizzu signals a desire to continue cooperation with the Maldives.
Strategic Importance
Inviting these leaders serves multiple purposes. It facilitates logistical arrangements, given the close ties and willingness of these leaders to attend on short notice. More importantly, their presence reinforces New Delhi’s commitment to maintaining strong relationships within the region.
During a recent phone conversation, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Hasina emphasized the friendly relations between India and Bangladesh, highlighting ongoing initiatives in connectivity and energy. Similarly, Modi’s conversation with President Wickremesinghe underscored the significance of Sri Lanka as a key partner in the “Neighbourhood First” policy.
Historical Context
This is not the first time India has extended such invitations. In 2014, Modi invited leaders from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to his inauguration. In 2019, leaders from the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) attended his swearing-in.
Verdict
The inclusion of President Muizzu in the guest list for Prime Minister Modi’s oath ceremony reflects India’s strategic and diplomatic efforts to foster regional cooperation. This move reinforces India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy and its focus on maintaining strong, cooperative relationships with its neighbors.
