Maldives urged India in economic crisis
Last Updated on May 9, 2024 2:47 am
India-Maldives tensions have been going on for several days. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was insulted by three Maldivian ministers.
Since then, the rift in the political relations between the two countries has deepened. Due to which the President of Maldives Mohammad Muijju decided to withdraw the Indian army from the country. On the other hand, the Indian government called for a boycott of Maldives. As a result, Indians no longer visit the Maldives.
Recently, the number of Indian tourists visiting Maldives has almost halved. As a result, Maldives is in economic crisis. Maldives Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal emphasized on the historic relationship between his country and India to resolve this crisis.
He requested Indian tourists to visit Maldives on Monday. This information was revealed in the report of NDTV on Tuesday.
Faisal said, we have a history. Our newly elected government also wants to work together with India. We always believe in peace and friendly relations. Our people and government will warmly welcome the arrival of Indians. As tourism minister I request Indians to be part of Maldives tourism. Because our economy depends on tourism.
A report from the Maldives on Monday said Indian tourists to the country have dropped by 42 percent. In the first four months of 2023, 73 thousand 785 Indians visited Maldives. In the four months of this year, it has decreased to 42 thousand 638 people. That means 31 thousand 147 tourists have decreased this year. Not only that, India was at the second place in terms of country-wise tourist statistics last year. The number of Indian tourists in Maldives has dropped to sixth place this year.
The tourism industry of Maldives has suffered a major blow due to the decrease in the number of Indian tourists. Tourism is one of the main pillars of the Maldives economy. This has also affected the economy of the island nation. Earlier, the country’s President Muijju has accused India of interfering in the affairs of the Maldives. He won the presidential election in September last year through the India Out campaign. On coming to power, Muijju forced the withdrawal of 88 Indian military personnel manning three aviation platforms gifted to the Maldives by India.