As Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Beijing to finalize bilateral agreements, China's state media addressed India's diplomatic discord with the Maldives. The Global Times editorial called for an "open-minded" perspective on South Asian issues. Concurrently, the Maldives government suspended three ministers for derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit. The Maldivian government distanced itself, stating these were "personal opinions" not reflecting official views. Tensions between India and the Maldives have risen since Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed power, defeating the India-friendly predecessor. The Global Times editorial underscores China's commitment to equal partnership and respecting the Maldives' sovereignty.

India has summoned the Maldivian High Commissioner and conveyed its outrage over derogatory social media remarks against PM Modi by Maldivian ministers. India said the onus is on President Muizzu to repair ties spoiled by his ministers' uncouth behavior. The MEA read the riot act to the envoy, asserting the 3 junior ministers must be sacked, not just suspended. The remarks followed Modi's Lakshadweep tourism pitch. India wonders if the comments were deliberate ahead of Muizzu's China visit. The MEA met the envoy briefly, underscoring India's anger. New Delhi feels Muizzu's silence indicates his tacit approval of the unacceptable remarks targeting the Indian PM.

Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan joins the chorus promoting Lakshadweep as a tourist destination amid tensions with the Maldives. Responding to cricketer Virender Sehwag's call to name unexplored places, Bachchan praises Lakshadweep's "astonishingly beautiful locations," highlighting stunning beaches and underwater experiences. The endorsement follows a wave of support from Bollywood stars and cricketers encouraging domestic island exploration. The Maldives-India row ignited after derogatory posts by Maldivian ministers on PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit. #BoycottMaldives trended as Indians reconsidered Maldives trips. The Maldives government suspended the ministers, emphasizing their views don't represent the nation's stance.

As the rift between Maldives and India escalates over insulting comments made by three Maldivian ministers targeting PM Modi, former Deputy Speaker Eva Abdulla apologizes, condemning the remarks as "shameful and racist." Abdulla urges an end to the #BoycottMaldives campaign, emphasizing that the comments do not reflect the views of the Maldivian people. Tensions rose after PM Modi's posts from Lakshadweep sparked calls for it as an alternative tourist destination. The Maldivian government suspends the ministers responsible, while Abdulla stresses the importance of strong India-Maldives ties and hopes for a crackdown on such comments in the future.

In response to a Maldivian MP's social media post criticizing PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit, Maldives Envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb was summoned by India's MEA. Following the controversy, President Mohamed Muizzu took swift action, suspending ministers Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid. Shiuna had referred to PM Modi as a "clown" and "puppet" in deleted posts, prompting official distancing from the remarks by the Maldivian government. The incident underscores diplomatic tensions, emphasizing the need for respectful discourse.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu embarks on a state visit to China amidst a diplomatic row with India. The trip, his first bilateral visit since taking office, follows the suspension of three deputy ministers over derogatory remarks about PM Narendra Modi's promotion of India's Lakshadweep archipelago. Some view the visit as an attempt to divert tourism from the Maldives. Controversial comments on social media triggered dismay from prominent Indians. India, a crucial tourism contributor, faces strained relations with Muizzu perceived as pro-Chinese. Competing for influence, both India and China have vested interests in the Maldives, further complicating regional dynamics

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer denounced derogatory comments by Maldivian ministers against PM Narendra Modi and India. He emphasized that such remarks are "unacceptable" and don't reflect the official stance of the Maldives government. Zameer reaffirmed the commitment to fostering a positive dialogue with neighbors. The controversy arose after a Maldivian deputy minister and officials disparaged PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit. Former President Solih condemned the "hateful language," urging the preservation of the enduring friendship with India. Ex-Foreign Minister Shahid called for identifying responsible officials. The incident sparked a significant uproar, prompting calls for accountability and reinforcing diplomatic ties.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to visit London on January 8 for a two-day bilateral meeting with UK Defence Minister Grant Shapps. The talks will focus on defense, security, and industrial cooperation. Singh will also meet UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Foreign Secretary David Cameron, and engage with CEOs and industry leaders from the UK Defense Industry. Discussions will encompass critical technology sharing and potential collaboration in developing fighter aircraft and military platforms. The visit aims to strengthen ties between the two nations and address regional situations in the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, and Ukraine.

Several ex-Maldivian ministers express support for India after derogatory remarks against PM Narendra Modi by Deputy Minister Mariyam Shiuna. Former President Mohammed Nasheed distances government from comments. Suspensions follow for ministers who posted supportive comments on social media. Ex-President Solih emphasizes India's longstanding friendship, while former minister Ahmed Adeeb urges a friendly approach for positive relations. Ex-Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid calls for government reprimand and stresses India's historical support. Controversy sparked by PM Modi's viral post on Lakshadweep, leading to calls for boycotting Maldives and strained relations. #BoycottMaldives gains momentum on social media.

Maldives government suspends three ministers, including Mariyam Shiuna, for derogatory remarks about PM Narendra Modi after his Lakshadweep visit. The move follows a surge in cancellations of tourist bookings from India. Maldivian Foreign Ministry clarifies that such opinions are personal and do not represent the government's views. Former president Mohamed Nasheed and Vice President Ahmed Adeeb condemn the remarks. Over 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets reportedly canceled in retaliation. The Maldives, a key maritime neighbor to India, plays a crucial role in regional initiatives like 'SAGAR' and 'Neighbourhood First Policy.'