In a surprising turn of events amidst diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, the Israeli embassy in India has extended its support for promoting tourism in Lakshadweep. The embassy’s statement, released on January 9, emphasized their previous involvement in the desalination program in Lakshadweep, initiated at the request of the Indian federal government. Furthermore, they expressed Israel’s readiness to resume work on this project immediately. To showcase the mesmerizing beauty of Lakshadweep, the embassy shared a series of images featuring the island’s pristine beaches and majestic underwater landscapes.
“We were in Lakshadweep last year upon the federal government’s request to initiate the desalination program. Israel is ready to commence working on this project tomorrow. For those who are yet to witness the pristine and majestic underwater beauty of Lakshadweep islands, here are a few pictures showing this island’s enchanting allure,” stated the Israeli embassy in a post on X.
While Israel extends its support for Lakshadweep, the Maldivian envoy to India found themselves summoned to the external affairs ministry on January 8. The meeting conveyed strong concern regarding disparaging remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi made by several Maldivian ministers on social media. The comments were in response to Modi’s post on X, following his visit to Lakshadweep, with the Maldivian ministers suggesting that it aimed to promote the Union Territory as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives. Consequently, three deputy ministers in the Maldivian government were suspended for their remarks.
In response to the situation, the Maldivian foreign ministry clarified that the government is aware of derogatory remarks on social media against foreign leaders. However, they emphasized that such expressions represent personal views and do not reflect the official position of the country.
Former Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi weighed in on the matter, expressing her disappointment over the derogatory comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She highlighted India’s crucial role as the “911 call” for the Maldives, always coming to their rescue in times of need. Didi stressed the longstanding relationship between the two nations, emphasizing India’s support in various sectors, including defense.
“It is the short-sightedness on the part of the present administration… We are a small country who are friends with all, but we cannot deny that we share borders with India. We share similar security concerns. India has always helped us. They have been helping us even in the defence sector with capacity building, providing us with equipment, and trying to make us more self-sufficient,” Mariya Ahmed Didi said.
The contrasting stances of the Israeli embassy’s support for Lakshadweep and the internal strife within the Maldivian government highlight the complex nature of diplomatic relations in the region. The importance of strategic partnerships and maintaining respectful discourse in the international arena is underscored by these events. As tensions persist, observers are keenly watching how these diplomatic dynamics unfold and impact the relationships between the nations involved.
