India is pursuing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Maldives, aiming to enhance trade relations. Efforts for the FTA come amid a diplomatic spat since President Muizzu's pro-China stance. Despite historical trade agreements, including an FTA with China, the Maldives is exploring closer ties with India.

Although political analysts and strategic experts remain optimistic about the continuity of bilateral relations regardless of the election outcomes, the brief opportunity for finalizing the FTA under the Sunak-led Tory government has vanished amidst the elections in both countries.

“The UK and India are continuing to work towards an ambitious trade deal. Whilst we don't comment on the details of live negotiations, we are clear that we will only sign a deal that is fair, balanced and ultimately in the best interests of the British people and the economy," a UK Department of Business and Trade spokesperson said.

"The negotiations are progressing well. Two rounds of in-person negotiations and many inter-sessional meetings have already been held. Good progress has been made on all the chapters covered under the CEPA," the official affirmed.