President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives has embarked on his first state visit to India, following an official invitation from Indian President Droupadi Murmu. The visit, which spans from October 6th to 10th, 2024, comes amid the Maldives’ deepening economic crisis and is viewed as a critical opportunity to secure financial support from New Delhi. During his trip, President Muizzu is set to hold high-level meetings with President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other senior Indian officials.

Just before departing, President Muizzu gave a written interview to the BBC, indicating a notable shift in his approach towards India. Despite previously advocating for the removal of Indian troops from the Maldives under his “India Out” campaign, Muizzu now emphasized his confidence in India’s role as a key partner in alleviating the Maldives' economic challenges. He stated that he is optimistic India will step in to ease the country’s financial burden and reiterated that the Maldives would not require an IMF bailout.

“India is fully cognizant of our fiscal situation, and as one of our biggest development partners, will always be ready to ease our burden, find better alternatives, and solutions to the challenges we face,” Muizzu told the BBC in an email interview just before departing for India.

The Maldives is facing a precarious economic situation, with its foreign reserves plummeting to just $440 million, enough for only one-and-a-half months of imports. Despite the financial challenges, Muizzu rejected the need for assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), opting for a "home-grown" solution instead.

The change in tone and approach is being closely watched as Muizzu seeks to stabilize relations with New Delhi, which had become strained following his election campaign rhetoric. The outcome of his meetings in India could shape the direction of the Maldives’ economic recovery and its diplomatic ties in the region.