His remarks came during a ceremony at the President’s Office, where he marked the completion of water supply and sewerage projects on 28 islands, funded through India's Line of Credit Facility via the EXIM Bank of India.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has arrived in the Maldives for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries. The visit, which began on August 9 and will run through August 11, is a significant step in furthering the bilateral relationship between India and the Maldives.

President Muizzu's overwhelming majority allows leverage for anti-India policies, sparking concerns in New Delhi.

The recent parliamentary elections in the Maldives have delivered a resounding victory for the People's National Congress (PNC), led by President Mohamed Muizzu.

The Maldives faced significant backlash following disparaging remarks made against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media by three Maldivian officials.

Through various collaborations, China has extended its support to the Maldives in multiple sectors, ranging from military assistance to infrastructure development.

This development comes after President Muizzu, known for his pro-Beijing stance, expressed the government's intent to procure surveillance drones in January upon his return from China.

Addressing concerns about the return of Indian troops, Muizzu dismissed rumours, emphasising that the Indian military would completely withdraw from the Maldives by the specified deadline. 

The EAM highlighted the substantial financial assistance provided to neighbouring countries during times of need, citing the $4.5 billion in aid offered during various crises.

This shift in tourist demographics is attributed to a diplomatic row that ensued following derogatory remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three Maldivian ministers.