Amid strained relations with India, the Maldives is facing a significant decline in the number of Indian tourists, exacerbating tensions between the two countries. According to media reports, a tourism body in the Maldives has announced plans to organize roadshows in Indian cities to lure back Indian tourists.
It’s worth mentioning that the Maldives faced sharp criticism and boycott threats when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi compared Lakshadweep to the Maldives during his visit to the Union Territory in January. Several Maldivian officials, including ministers, made disparaging remarks against him, drawing widespread condemnation in India. At that time, the hashtag #BoycottMaldives trended on social media, with many prominent figures in India expressing support for the boycott.
Statement by MATATO:
Reports suggest that discussions were held with the Indian High Commissioner in Male on April 8. Subsequently, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) announced plans to organize roadshows and enhance travel and tourism cooperation with India. MATATO expressed its desire to work collaboratively with Indian authorities to promote tourism. The association emphasized India’s significance for Maldives tourism and expressed eagerness to collaborate.
India-Maldives Relations Sour:
It’s worth noting that relations between India and the Maldives have soured since the election of a China-lean president last year. In recent days, tensions between the two countries escalated following controversial remarks on PM Modi, leading to strained relations. The Maldives’ ambassador was also summoned to the Foreign Ministry in India.
