The Maldives has elected a new president, Mohamed Muizzu, marking a potential shift in the country’s foreign relations. Muizzu, an opposition candidate, defeated the incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who is known for his pro-India stance.
Muizzu secured a decisive victory with 54% of the votes. His election could potentially reduce India’s influence in the Maldives and strengthen ties with China, signaling a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy.
President Solih’s defeat marks the end of a pro-India administration. During his tenure, Solih had worked to strengthen ties with India. However, Muizzu’s victory could see a pivot towards China, echoing the foreign policy of previous administrations.
Muizzu’s campaign had hinted at this potential shift, promising to review the country’s foreign relations and consider stronger ties with China. This move could have significant implications for regional politics and the balance of power in South Asia.
The president-elect is set to be sworn in on November 17. As the Maldives prepares for this political transition, regional powers will be watching closely to see how these changes might impact their relations with the island nation.