The foreign ministers of India and Maldives met in New Delhi a day ahead of a deadline set by the Maldives' new president, Mohamed Muizzu, for India to withdraw dozens of its soldiers from the archipelago nation.
The president, who leans towards China, clarified that he hasn't taken any actions or made statements that could strain the relationship between the two countries, as reported by the Edition newspaper.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, on a five-day visit to China, seeks increased Chinese tourism amidst cancellations by Indian tourists due to diplomatic tensions.
Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday formally requested India to withdraw its military personnel from his country, saying the Maldivian people have given him a "strong mandate" to make this request to New Delhi
In the second round of polling, held after the initial round failed to produce a clear winner, Muizzu maintained his lead. He secured approximately 46% of the votes in the first round, while Ibrahim Solih trailed with 39%.