India Maldives Relations Renewed Cooperation And Regional Security

India and Maldives are reinforcing their bilateral relationship, highlighted by the recent visit of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to India. The partnership is rooted in historical events like India's 'Operation Cactus' in 1988, which quelled a coup attempt in Maldives, and India's continuous naval presence since 2009 at the request of the Maldivian government.

Recent developments include India's pledge of $1.4 billion in financial aid to bolster the Maldivian economy and the intention to extend the Coastal Surveillance Radar Systems (CSRS) Project, initially launched in 2015. Maldives, supported by India, has recently gained membership in the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and is pursuing readmission into the Commonwealth, further solidifying their regional and international engagement.

India-Maldives Relations: A Deep Dive into Renewed Cooperation and Regional Security

The strategic importance of the India-Maldives relationship extends far beyond simple neighborly ties. It is a complex interplay of historical obligations, security concerns, economic partnerships, and regional power dynamics. The year 2019 witnessed a significant upswing in this relationship, marked by high-level visits, substantial financial commitments from India, and a renewed focus on maritime security cooperation. This resurgence is critical not only for the bilateral ties but also for the broader strategic landscape of the Indian Ocean region.

Historical Bonds and Security Guarantees

The foundation of the India-Maldives relationship is built upon shared history, cultural affinities, and geographical proximity. For centuries, trade and cultural exchange have flowed between the two nations, fostering a sense of kinship and mutual understanding. However, the modern relationship is most notably defined by India's role as a security guarantor for the island nation.

The most prominent example of this commitment is "Operation Cactus" in November 1988. A group of mercenaries, primarily from the Sri Lankan Tamil militant group People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE), attempted to overthrow the government of then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. The Maldivian government, overwhelmed by the scale of the attack, appealed to India for assistance. Then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi responded swiftly, dispatching the Indian Armed Forces to Malé within hours. Indian paratroopers secured the airport, neutralized the mercenaries, and restored the Gayoom government to power.

Operation Cactus was a watershed moment. It demonstrated India's willingness and capability to project power in its immediate neighborhood to safeguard the sovereignty and stability of a friendly nation. It solidified India's image as a reliable partner and a net security provider in the Indian Ocean region. The operation also highlighted the vulnerability of small island nations to external threats and the importance of regional security cooperation.

Evolving Security Dynamics: The Coastal Surveillance Radar System (CSRS)

Beyond dramatic interventions like Operation Cactus, India has maintained a consistent security presence in Maldives. Since 2009, the Indian Navy has maintained a presence in Maldives, providing assistance with maritime surveillance, training, and disaster relief. This presence is maintained at the request of the Maldivian government, reflecting the island nation's dependence on India for its maritime security.

A key component of this security cooperation is the Coastal Surveillance Radar System (CSRS) project. This initiative involves the installation of a network of coastal surveillance radars across the Maldivian archipelago. These radars provide real-time monitoring of maritime traffic, helping to detect and deter illegal activities such as piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing. The CSRS project is not limited to Maldives; it is part of a broader Indian effort to enhance maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean region, with similar systems being deployed in other coastal nations like Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Seychelles.

The significance of the CSRS project lies in its ability to enhance maritime security in a region that is increasingly vulnerable to a range of threats. The Indian Ocean is a vital shipping lane, carrying a significant portion of global trade. Its vastness and complexity make it challenging to monitor effectively. The CSRS provides a crucial tool for improving maritime domain awareness, enabling timely responses to security threats and promoting safe and secure maritime activity. India’s offer to extend this project further underscores the long-term commitment to the island nation’s security.

Economic Lifeline: India's Financial Assistance

While security cooperation is a cornerstone of the India-Maldives relationship, economic assistance is equally crucial. Maldives is a small island nation with limited natural resources and a fragile economy heavily reliant on tourism. The country faces significant economic challenges, including high debt levels, vulnerability to climate change, and dependence on imports.

In 2019, India announced a substantial financial assistance package of $1.4 billion to Maldives. This aid package is intended to support the Maldivian government's economic development agenda, focusing on infrastructure projects, healthcare, and education. The assistance is provided through a combination of concessional loans and grants, designed to ease the burden on the Maldivian economy.

This financial commitment reflects India's understanding of the economic challenges faced by Maldives and its willingness to provide crucial support. It also underscores India's strategic interest in promoting stability and prosperity in its neighborhood. A stable and prosperous Maldives is less vulnerable to external influences and better positioned to contribute to regional security and cooperation.

Regional Engagement: IORA and the Commonwealth

The strengthening of the India-Maldives relationship is also reflected in their engagement in regional forums. Maldives, with India's backing, recently became a member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). IORA is an inter-governmental organization aimed at promoting regional cooperation and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region. It provides a platform for member states to collaborate on a range of issues, including maritime security, trade, investment, and disaster management.

India has been a strong supporter of IORA since its inception in 1997. India recognizes the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the Indian Ocean region. IORA provides a valuable forum for dialogue and collaboration, promoting a shared understanding of regional issues and fostering collective action.

Maldives' membership in IORA strengthens the organization and enhances its ability to address the specific challenges faced by small island states in the Indian Ocean. It also provides Maldives with a platform to advocate for its interests and contribute to regional decision-making.

In addition to IORA, Maldives is also seeking to rejoin the Commonwealth. Maldives withdrew from the Commonwealth in 2016, citing concerns about interference in its internal affairs. However, the current government, led by President Solih, has expressed a strong desire to rejoin the organization.

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 53 member states, mostly former territories of the British Empire. It is united by shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Membership in the Commonwealth provides access to various development programs and opportunities for international cooperation. It also enhances a country's international standing and provides a platform for engaging with other member states on issues of mutual concern.

India has been a strong supporter of Maldives' efforts to rejoin the Commonwealth. India believes that Maldives' membership would strengthen the organization and promote its values in the Indian Ocean region. It would also provide Maldives with valuable opportunities for development and cooperation.

Understanding the Key Players

To fully grasp the dynamics of the India-Maldives relationship, it is essential to understand the key actors involved and their respective roles and interests.

• Ibrahim Mohamed Solih: As the President of Maldives, Solih plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's foreign policy. His administration has prioritized strengthening ties with India, recognizing the importance of India's support for the country's economic development and security. Solih's visit to India in 2019 underscored the importance of the bilateral relationship and set the stage for enhanced cooperation in various areas.

• India: India is a key partner and supporter of Maldives, with a long history of providing security and economic assistance. India's strategic interest in the Indian Ocean region drives its engagement with Maldives. India seeks to maintain its influence in the region, counter the influence of other powers, and promote stability and security.

• Maldives: Maldives is a small island nation strategically located in the Indian Ocean. Its geographical location makes it important for regional security and maritime trade routes. Maldives relies on India for its security and economic development and seeks to maintain close ties with its larger neighbor.

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Key Terms and Their Significance

Several key terms are essential to understanding the complexities of the India-Maldives relationship:

• Operation Cactus: As discussed earlier, this military operation demonstrated India's commitment to the security and stability of Maldives and its willingness to intervene when necessary.

• Coastal Surveillance Radar Systems (CSRS) Project: This project strengthens maritime security cooperation and allows for better monitoring of the Indian Ocean, addressing concerns like piracy and illegal fishing.

• Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA): This inter-governmental organization provides a platform for India and Maldives to collaborate on various issues, including maritime security, economic development, and disaster management.

• Commonwealth: Membership in the Commonwealth provides Maldives with access to various development programs and opportunities for international cooperation.

Organizations Shaping the Relationship

Several organizations play a significant role in shaping the India-Maldives relationship:

• Indian Army: The Indian Army's role in Operation Cactus cemented India's position as a security guarantor for Maldives.

• Indian Navy: The Indian Navy maintains a presence in Maldives, providing maritime security and surveillance.

• Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA): IORA promotes regional cooperation and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region.

• Commonwealth Secretariat: The Commonwealth Secretariat focuses on intergovernmental aspects of the Commonwealth, providing technical assistance and support to member states.

• Commonwealth Foundation: The Commonwealth Foundation focuses on non-governmental relations between member states, supporting civil society organizations and promoting people-to-people connections.

• Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS): IONS increases maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

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• Indian Ocean Commission (COI): COI fosters regional cooperation among African Indian Ocean nations, promoting sustainable development and regional integration.

Historical Precedents: Learning from the Past

Historical precedents, such as Operation Cactus, provide valuable insights into the dynamics of the India-Maldives relationship. These precedents demonstrate India's willingness to act as a security guarantor for Maldives and the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing security challenges.

Stakeholder Positions: Divergent Interests, Shared Goals

Understanding the positions of key stakeholders is crucial for analyzing the India-Maldives relationship:

• India: India is committed to supporting the economic development and security of Maldives. Its underlying interests include maintaining its influence in the Indian Ocean region and countering the influence of other powers. India takes actions such as providing financial assistance, security cooperation, and support for regional initiatives to achieve its objectives.

• Maldives: Maldives seeks closer ties with India to address its economic challenges and enhance its security. Its underlying interests include securing economic assistance and ensuring its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Maldives takes actions such as accepting Indian assistance and participating in regional initiatives to achieve its objectives.

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Broader Implications: A Multifaceted Impact

The strengthening of the India-Maldives relationship has broad implications across various domains:

• Political: Strengthened bilateral relations between India and Maldives.
• Diplomatic: Increased Indian influence in the Indian Ocean region.
• Security: Enhanced maritime security cooperation and improved surveillance capabilities.
• Economic: Economic boost for Maldives through Indian financial assistance.

Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities

The India-Maldives relationship is not without its challenges. One of the main challenges is managing the influence of other external actors in the region, particularly China. China has been increasing its presence in the Indian Ocean, investing in infrastructure projects and forging closer ties with regional countries, including Maldives.

India views China's growing influence with concern, seeing it as a potential challenge to its strategic interests. India seeks to maintain its position as the dominant power in the Indian Ocean region and is wary of China's efforts to expand its influence.

To counter China's influence, India is strengthening its ties with Maldives and other regional countries. India is also promoting regional cooperation through forums like IORA and IONS. India seeks to create a network of partnerships that can collectively address the challenges facing the Indian Ocean region.

Despite the challenges, the India-Maldives relationship offers significant opportunities for both countries. By working together, India and Maldives can enhance their security, promote economic development, and contribute to regional stability.

The Shadow of China: A Constant Variable

No discussion of India-Maldives relations can be complete without acknowledging the presence of China. China's increasing economic and strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean region has become a major factor shaping the foreign policy choices of many countries, including Maldives.

During the presidency of Abdulla Yameen (2013-2018), Maldives pursued closer ties with China, resulting in significant Chinese investment in infrastructure projects. This tilt towards China raised concerns in India about the potential erosion of its influence in the region.

The return of a more India-friendly government under President Solih has provided an opportunity to reset the relationship. However, the legacy of Chinese investment and influence remains. Maldives needs to carefully balance its relations with both India and China, ensuring that its foreign policy serves its own national interests.

India, for its part, needs to be proactive in engaging with Maldives and addressing its concerns. India needs to offer attractive economic and development assistance packages that can compete with Chinese offers. India also needs to be sensitive to Maldivian concerns about sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.

Maritime Security: A Shared Imperative

Given their geographical proximity and shared maritime domain, India and Maldives have a strong interest in cooperating on maritime security. The Indian Ocean faces a range of maritime security challenges, including piracy, terrorism, illegal fishing, and drug trafficking.

India and Maldives have been cooperating on maritime security for many years, conducting joint patrols, sharing information, and providing training. The CSRS project is a key component of this cooperation, enhancing maritime domain awareness and enabling timely responses to security threats.

However, there is scope for further strengthening maritime security cooperation. India and Maldives could explore joint exercises, expand information sharing, and coordinate their efforts to combat maritime crime. They could also work together to build the capacity of the Maldivian Coast Guard, providing training and equipment to enhance its ability to protect its maritime domain.

Economic Cooperation: Beyond Financial Assistance

While India's financial assistance is crucial for the Maldivian economy, there is also scope for expanding economic cooperation in other areas. Trade between India and Maldives is relatively modest and could be significantly increased.

India could explore opportunities to invest in the Maldivian economy, particularly in sectors such as tourism, fisheries, and renewable energy. India could also provide technical assistance to help Maldives diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on tourism.

Connectivity is another important area for economic cooperation. India and Maldives could explore ways to improve air and sea connectivity, facilitating trade and investment. They could also work together to develop infrastructure projects, such as ports and airports.

People-to-People Connections: Building Bridges

Beyond government-to-government cooperation, it is also important to foster people-to-people connections between India and Maldives. Cultural exchanges, educational scholarships, and tourism can all help to build bridges between the two countries and promote mutual understanding.

India could offer more scholarships to Maldivian students to study in Indian universities. It could also promote tourism to Maldives, encouraging Indian tourists to visit the island nation and experience its culture and natural beauty.

Cultural exchanges can also play an important role in fostering people-to-people connections. India and Maldives could organize joint cultural events, showcasing their respective traditions and promoting mutual understanding.

The Importance of Strategic Communication

In an era of information warfare and disinformation, strategic communication is crucial for managing perceptions and shaping narratives. India and Maldives need to work together to communicate the benefits of their relationship to their respective publics and to counter any negative narratives.

India needs to highlight its role as a reliable partner and a provider of security and economic assistance to Maldives. It needs to emphasize the shared values and interests that bind the two countries together.

Maldives, for its part, needs to communicate the importance of its relationship with India for its own security and economic development. It needs to emphasize that its foreign policy is based on its own national interests and that it is not beholden to any external power.

Future Outlook: A Promising Trajectory

The India-Maldives relationship is on a positive trajectory, with both countries committed to strengthening their ties. The high-level visits, financial assistance, and security cooperation initiatives of 2019 demonstrate the depth and breadth of the relationship.

However, there are challenges that need to be addressed, including managing the influence of other external actors and strengthening maritime security cooperation. By working together, India and Maldives can overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of their relationship.

The future of the India-Maldives relationship depends on sustained engagement, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to regional stability and prosperity. If both countries can maintain this momentum, the relationship is poised for even greater success in the years to come.

The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS): A Multilateral Approach to Maritime Security

While bilateral cooperation between India and Maldives is crucial, multilateral initiatives like the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) also play a vital role in enhancing maritime security in the region. IONS is a voluntary initiative that brings together the navies of the Indian Ocean littoral states to promote dialogue, cooperation, and information sharing.

IONS provides a platform for navies to discuss common maritime security challenges, such as piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing. It also facilitates joint exercises and training, enhancing interoperability and building trust among participating navies.

India has been a strong supporter of IONS since its inception in 2008. India recognizes the importance of a multilateral approach to maritime security, given the complex and transnational nature of the challenges.

Maldives is also an active participant in IONS. Maldives recognizes the value of IONS as a forum for dialogue and cooperation, particularly for small island states that lack the resources to address maritime security challenges on their own.

The Indian Ocean Commission (COI): Regional Cooperation in the Western Indian Ocean

While IONS focuses on maritime security across the entire Indian Ocean region, the Indian Ocean Commission (COI) promotes regional cooperation among the African Indian Ocean nations. The COI comprises Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Réunion (a French overseas territory), and Seychelles.

The COI focuses on promoting sustainable development, regional integration, and maritime security in the western Indian Ocean. It addresses issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and maritime crime.

Although Maldives is not a member of the COI, it shares common interests with the organization, particularly in the areas of climate change and maritime security. Maldives could explore opportunities to cooperate with the COI on issues of mutual concern.

Legal Frameworks and Processes: Anchoring Cooperation in International Law

While the India-Maldives relationship is primarily based on political and strategic considerations, it is also important to anchor cooperation in legal frameworks and processes. This ensures that cooperation is consistent with international law and that it is based on clear rules and procedures.

India and Maldives have signed a number of agreements covering various areas of cooperation, including security, trade, and investment. These agreements provide a legal basis for cooperation and ensure that it is conducted in a transparent and accountable manner.

India and Maldives also participate in various international legal frameworks, such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). UNCLOS provides a comprehensive legal framework for regulating maritime activities and resolving maritime disputes.

The Role of Civil Society: Fostering People-to-People Connections

While government-to-government cooperation is essential, civil society organizations also play a vital role in fostering people-to-people connections and promoting mutual understanding between India and Maldives.

Civil society organizations can facilitate cultural exchanges, educational programs, and humanitarian assistance. They can also advocate for policies that promote closer ties between the two countries.

India and Maldives could support civil society initiatives that promote people-to-people connections and build bridges between the two countries. They could also encourage civil society organizations to participate in regional forums and contribute to regional cooperation.

Addressing Climate Change: A Shared Vulnerability

Climate change is a major threat to both India and Maldives, but particularly to Maldives as a low-lying island nation. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and ocean acidification pose significant risks to the Maldivian economy, environment, and society.

India and Maldives need to work together to address climate change, both at the national and international levels. They could cooperate on climate adaptation and mitigation measures, such as developing renewable energy sources, protecting coastal ecosystems, and building climate-resilient infrastructure.

India could also provide technical assistance to help Maldives adapt to the impacts of climate change. India has significant expertise in areas such as disaster management, water management, and sustainable agriculture, which could be valuable for Maldives.

The Importance of Sustained Dialogue and Engagement

The India-Maldives relationship requires sustained dialogue and engagement at all levels. High-level visits, ministerial meetings, and parliamentary exchanges can help to build trust and promote mutual understanding.

Regular consultations between government officials, business leaders, and civil society representatives can also help to identify areas for cooperation and address any challenges that may arise.

Sustained dialogue and engagement are essential for maintaining the positive momentum in the India-Maldives relationship and ensuring that it continues to grow and prosper.

India's Neighborhood First Policy: A Framework for Regional Engagement

India's engagement with Maldives is guided by its "Neighborhood First" policy, which prioritizes building strong and cooperative relationships with its neighbors. The "Neighborhood First" policy reflects India's understanding that its own security and prosperity are closely linked to the stability and prosperity of its neighborhood.

Under the "Neighborhood First" policy, India provides economic assistance, security cooperation, and disaster relief to its neighbors. It also promotes regional cooperation through forums like SAARC, BIMSTEC, and IORA.

The "Neighborhood First" policy provides a framework for India's engagement with Maldives, ensuring that it is based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a commitment to regional stability and prosperity.

The Need for a Long-Term Strategic Vision

The India-Maldives relationship requires a long-term strategic vision that goes beyond short-term political considerations. This vision should be based on a clear understanding of the shared interests and challenges facing both countries.

The strategic vision should focus on strengthening security cooperation, promoting economic development, addressing climate change, and fostering people-to-people connections. It should also take into account the changing geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean region.

By developing a long-term strategic vision, India and Maldives can ensure that their relationship remains strong and resilient in the face of future challenges.

Conclusion: A Partnership of Strategic Significance

The India-Maldives relationship is a partnership of strategic significance, rooted in shared history, cultural affinities, and geographical proximity. The strengthening of this relationship in recent years reflects the growing recognition of its importance for both countries and for the broader Indian Ocean region.

While challenges remain, the opportunities for cooperation are immense. By working together, India and Maldives can enhance their security, promote economic development, address climate change, and contribute to regional stability and prosperity. The key lies in sustained engagement, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to a long-term strategic vision. The relationship between India and Maldives is not just about bilateral ties; it is about shaping the future of the Indian Ocean region and promoting a more peaceful and prosperous world.