Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, generally vocal against what he calls the Indian influence on his country, had just called India their closest ally.
Mr. Muizzu made the comments while talking to a news portal. His party lost the recent mayoral election in the capital Malé, and is gearing up for the parliament elections in April.
Seeks Debt Relief
The Maldivian President hoped India would provide debt relief measures to his country.
Maldives currently owes over 400 million USD to India.
Mr. Muizzu, who has been President since November last year, actively sought the repatriation of Indian military personnel from his country.
India is important for the country’s projects
President Muizzu said India had been crucial in assisting the Maldives and developed several projects.