The recent diplomatic tension between India and the Maldives, sparked by comments from Maldivian ministers on Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep, has cast a shadow over the traditionally warm relationship between the two Indian Ocean neighbors. In the midst of this discord, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s statement, “Politics is politics, can’t guarantee every country will support us,” has become a point of discussion, offering insights into the complexities of international relations and India’s evolving strategic posture.
Understanding the Row:
The issue arose in December 2023 when three Maldivian ministers, Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, made public remarks deemed critical of the Indian government’s policies in Lakshadweep. This triggered a strong reaction from India, with the Ministry of External Affairs summoning the Maldivian High Commissioner and demanding a public apology.
The Maldivian government, while expressing regret for the comments, declined to formally apologize, citing freedom of expression. This led to a further escalation, with India suspending several development projects and recalling its ambassador.
Jaishankar’s “Politics is Politics” Remark:
Addressing the Manthan conference in Nagpur on January 13th, Jaishankar acknowledged the diplomatic standoff, stating, “Politics is politics. So I cannot you know guarantee that in every country in every day everybody will support us or agree with us.” This remark, while seemingly straightforward, carries several layers of meaning and nuance.
Recognizing the Inevitability of Discord:
On one hand, Jaishankar’s statement acknowledges the inherent nature of international relations, where differing interests and priorities can lead to disagreements, even between close partners. This is a pragmatic stance, recognizing that absolute alignment between nations is rarely attainable.
Focus on Building Relationships:
However, Jaishankar’s statement goes beyond simply accepting friction. He highlights the importance of building strong connections and fostering understanding at the people-to-people level. This, he emphasizes, has been a key aspect of India’s foreign policy in recent years, particularly with countries like the Maldives.
The Importance of People-to-People Ties:
By prioritizing people-to-people relations, India seeks to create a foundation of goodwill and shared interests that can withstand occasional political turbulence. This approach aims to ensure that even when disagreements arise, they don’t fundamentally disrupt the overall relationship.
Maldives’ Strategic Shift and External Influences:
The Maldives, while traditionally close to India, has in recent years sought to diversify its foreign partnerships, engaging more actively with China and other regional players. This shift is partly driven by Maldivian aspirations for greater economic development and a desire to balance its security options.
Navigating a Complex Geopolitical Landscape:
Jaishankar’s statement can be seen as a response to this changing strategic landscape. He acknowledges the need for India to adapt its approach to accommodate the Maldives’ evolving priorities while still safeguarding its own interests. This suggests a willingness to engage in dialogue and find mutually beneficial solutions, even amidst political differences.
Future Implications:
The India-Maldives row remains a dynamic issue, with no immediate resolution in sight. However, Jaishankar’s “politics is politics” remark offers valuable insights into India’s evolving strategic thinking. It reflects a pragmatic understanding of the realities of international relations, a commitment to building strong people-to-people ties, and a willingness to adapt to the changing geopolitical landscape.
Further Points of Discussion:
How effective is India’s strategy of focusing on people-to-people relations in maintaining strong regional ties?
What are the long-term implications of the Maldives’ strategic shift for India’s security interests in the Indian Ocean?
How can India navigate the complex geopolitical landscape in the region, balancing its interests with those of its partners while addressing emerging challenges?
These are just some of the questions that Jaishankar’s “politics is politics” remark raises. By understanding the context and implications of this statement, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and opportunities India faces in its quest for regional stability and cooperation.
