'At the end of the day, neighbors need each other': Jaishankar on the 'India Out' campaign in Maldives

Diplomatic tensions escalate as the 'India Out' campaign strains relations between India and Maldives. Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, propelled by the campaign, leans towards China, demanding the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar addresses the complex situation, emphasizing historical ties. Amid Red Sea security concerns, Jaishankar asserts India's responsibility, citing recent naval rescues. Encouraging confidence, he advises India not to fear China but rather excel in global politics. Additionally, Jaishankar supports a two-state solution for the Israel-Hamas conflict.

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Amidst escalating tensions due to the 'India Out' campaign in the Maldives, India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, addressed the strained relations during an event at the Indian Institute of Management in Mumbai. Expressing a nuanced perspective, Jaishankar emphasized the intrinsic need for neighboring countries to collaborate, stating, "At the end of the day, neighbors need each other."

The backdrop of this statement lies in the Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's victory in the November election, where the 'India Out' campaign played a pivotal role. The President's subsequent pivot towards China, distancing from New Delhi, has added complexity to the diplomatic ties. President Muizzu has called for the withdrawal of nearly 80 Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives and has set a March 2024 deadline for the action. Additionally, he announced the discontinuation of emergency helicopter services facilitated by India.

Jaishankar's remarks come in the wake of a diplomatic row triggered by derogatory comments made by deputy ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Maldives' decision to allow the docking of a Chinese research ship further strained relations, as it departed from the tradition of India being the first port of call.

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The External Affairs Minister also addressed the global geopolitical scenario, encouraging India not to fear China but to engage in competitive politics. He stressed the need to outperform in global affairs, citing Nepal's recent discovery of exporting electricity to India as a mutually beneficial transaction.

Jaishankar extended his commentary beyond regional issues, discussing India's involvement in the Red Sea amidst attacks on commercial vessels. Highlighting India's responsibility, he stated, "India's greater capability, our own interest, and our reputation today warrant that we actually help out in difficult situations."

In conclusion, Jaishankar's multifaceted discussion covered diplomatic challenges with the Maldives, global political competition, and India's proactive role in addressing international crises, providing a comprehensive overview of India's stance on regional and global affairs.