Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu conveyed warm greetings to India on its 75th Republic Day, highlighting the longstanding friendship between the two nations. The Maldivian President emphasized the bond founded on “mutual respect and a deep sense of kinship,” according to a statement from the President’s office.

President Muizzu extended his felicitations in separate messages to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The messages expressed hope for continued peace, progress, and prosperity for India, reaffirming the enduring ties between the Maldives and India.

Notably, this gesture marks a significant shift in diplomatic relations since tensions escalated between the two nations. The dispute initially arose when three Maldivian deputy ministers posted derogatory remarks on social media in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pictures in Lakshadweep, perceived as an attempt to divert tourists from the Maldives.

The rift further deepened when President Muizzu, after a visit to China, expressed intentions to reduce reliance on India for healthcare, medicines, and essential imports. The move came amid accusations of India bullying the Maldives due to its smaller size, while praising China for respecting the island-nation’s territorial integrity.

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer also extended greetings to India on social media, expressing confidence in the continued flourishing of close bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.