look news india
Maldives President Mohammed Muizzu used to turn a blind eye to China as well as India but now he has come to his senses. In view of the declining economy, Maldives has requested India that their country is dependent on tourism, hence people from India should come to Maldives. This statement of Maldives Tourism Minister has come at a time when relations between India and Maldives have become tense.
The Tourism Minister on Monday urged Indians to contribute to their country's economy, which is dependent on tourism. Maldives Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal stressed the historical ties between Maldives and India in an interview in Dubai. He said, Maldives is an island country where tourism is the main source of livelihood.
He said, we have a history. Our government also wants to work with India. We always promote a peaceful and friendly environment. Our people and government will warmly welcome the visiting Indians. As Tourism Minister, I want to ask Indians to please be a part of Maldives tourism. Our economy is dependent on tourism.
This is the dispute between India and Maldives
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had shared some pictures and videos of Lakshadweep on Instagram on January 6, on which 3 ministers of Maldives made derogatory comments against India and Prime Minister Modi on social media. The incident sparked strong reaction in India and people took to social media to demand boycott of Maldives and not go there for tourism.
42% decline in Indian tourists
The number of tourists reaching Maldives from India has decreased by about 42 percent. According to a report, tourist arrivals from India to Maldives have declined by 42 percent in the first 4 months of this year as compared to the first 4 months of last year. Indians are preferring Lakshadweep or Andaman Nicobar instead of Maldives, hence Maldives is being affected the most.