President: Foreign policy shaped to benefit the people

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu says his administration has shaped foreign policy around one guiding principle: securing the most beneficial outcomes for the Maldivian people.

Speaking at a meeting on Monday evening to mark the two-year anniversary of his government, the President said he has worked to ensure that the Maldives’ foreign relations reflect the will of the people and serve the country’s long-term interests.

“We are working with all countries, large and small, to provide the most beneficial way for the people. There are many successes as well,” he said.

Among those successes, the President highlighted:

• An increase in visa-free travel options for Maldivians

• New embassies being opened in key countries to attract investment

• Expanded diplomatic coverage, with existing ambassadors now serving as non-resident envoys to 27 additional nations

The President emphasized that close ties have been established across the international community, and that the Maldives is actively engaging with partners to strengthen cooperation and unlock new opportunities.

The government came to power after a long campaign calling for the withdrawal of Indian troops from Maldives. Therefore, the government was initially labeled as an unfriendly government from India, one of Maldives's largest donors.

Earlier in this government, relations between the two countries deteriorated further over the insults of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by several deputy ministers and the President's remarks that India was 'bullying' Maldives. Since then, experts say, Indian tourists have declined and the sector has suffered.