2024 India–Maldives diplomatic row

The incumbent, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, campaigned on an "India-first" policy, aiming to strengthen ties with the Maldives' geographical and cultural neighbor, India.

In contrast, Muizzu adopted the slogan "India Out," calling for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed on the archipelago[4][5][6] while campaigning for closer relations with China.

[7] This stance aligned with the policies of former president Abdulla Yameen, founder of the People's National Congress, under whom the Maldives joined China's Belt and Road Initiative.

[9][10] President Xi Jinping of China welcomed the election,[11][12] while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Muizzu and conveyed his "good wishes for the strengthening of democracy, peace, and prosperity in the country.

[16][17] In response, Zahid Rameez, a member of the Progressive Party of Maldives, accused the Indian government of "copying a small economy like Sri Lanka," triggering an online boycott of Maldivian tourism.

[19] On 7 January, three sitting Maldivian deputy ministers—Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid—made derogatory and racist remarks about Prime Minister Modi and Indians on social media, coinciding with his visit.

[20][21] The remarks triggered strong reactions in India, leading the Indian High Commission in the Maldives to raise the issue with the Maldivian government.

[22] Under President Mohamed Muizzu, the Maldivian government swiftly distanced itself from the comments, suspending the three ministers and emphasizing that their opinions did not reflect the official stance.

The statement reaffirmed the government's commitment to freedom of expression, exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and emphasized that such comments should not hinder close relations with India.

After the second India-Maldives high-level core group meeting, Malé announced that India would replace its military personnel involved in operating its base in the Maldives.