PM Modi A social media post by a Maldivian minister after his recent visit to Lakshadweep has sparked controversy. Let us tell you that PM Modi went snorkeling last week and shared his exciting experience of the islands in the Arabian Sea.
Thinking that PM Modi’s visit is aimed at promoting Indian islands, Minister Abdulla Mahjum Majeed claims that India is diverting attention from Maldives by promoting Lakshadweep as another tourist destination. Majid further said that India faces significant challenges in competing with Maldives in beach tourism. The dispute comes amid strained relations between the two countries after President Mohammad Muizzu came to power in November last year.
It is noteworthy that Muizzu from the Progressive Alliance – a coalition of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and People’s National Congress (PNC), is considered pro-China. His rival, former President Ibrahim Mohammad Solih, had good relations with India and bilateral relations between the two countries progressed under Solih’s rule. Muizzoo is a close aide of former Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen, who is known for his pro-China stance.
Maldives Minister Abdulla Mohjum Majeed shared a post on social media, in which he wrote, ‘I wish Indian tourism all the best for targeting Maldives tourism, but India will face tough competition from tourism among us. Our resort infrastructure alone is more than their entire infrastructure. PM Modi has also been tagged in this post.
The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall. 🤷🏻♂️ https://t.co/AzWMkcxdcf
— Zahid Rameez (@xahidcreator) January 5, 2024
Prime Minister PM Modi was in Lakshadweep in the first week of January to inaugurate the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection and lay the foundation stone for the renovation of a primary health facility and five model Anganwadi centres.