Posted 1/10/2024, 6:52:11 AM
Maldives Opposition Calls for Repairing Ties with India after Racist Remarks Damage Relations
- Opposition leader calls for Maldives government to take tougher stand on racist comments against India and PM Modi made by officials
- Says spat has gone beyond governments and reached the people, damaging ties; governments will have spats but need to repair people-to-people relations
- Notes India is a major development partner for Maldives historically; security of Indian Ocean depends on cooperation
- Current government has closer China ties but engagement shifts with political changes; India-first policy important for stability
- Wants to visit Lakshadweep given historical links; visitor data shows India is largest tourism source market for Maldives