Former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb has clarified that the controversial “India Out” campaign was an initiative launched by former President Abdulla Yameen and does not reflect the policies of the current administration under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
In a tweet on January 4, 2025, Adeeb highlighted his year-long efforts to engage with Indian media and officials to explain that the campaign originated during Yameen’s presidency, which he described as driven by “Indophobic tendencies.” Adeeb also expressed gratitude to Maldives' Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, for publicly distancing the current government from the campaign.
Dr. Khaleel, in an interview with WION News, remarked that "India Out was headed by our former President Yameen. He is totally segregated from us. Our president is moving forward with a stronger relationship with India and Indian people.” This marks a notable shift in tone from the current administration, which seeks to restore and strengthen relations with its South Asian neighbor.
The “India Out” campaign gained prominence during Yameen’s tenure and was criticized for its anti-India rhetoric, particularly regarding military cooperation agreements. Critics argued that the movement risked undermining the Maldives' historically important partnership with India under the guise of protecting national sovereignty.
The Muizzu administration, which took office in late 2023, has expressed a commitment to improving relations with India, emphasizing economic cooperation and regional stability.
In a tweet on January 4, 2025, Adeeb highlighted his year-long efforts to engage with Indian media and officials to explain that the campaign originated during Yameen’s presidency, which he described as driven by “Indophobic tendencies.” Adeeb also expressed gratitude to Maldives' Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, for publicly distancing the current government from the campaign.
Dr. Khaleel, in an interview with WION News, remarked that "India Out was headed by our former President Yameen. He is totally segregated from us. Our president is moving forward with a stronger relationship with India and Indian people.” This marks a notable shift in tone from the current administration, which seeks to restore and strengthen relations with its South Asian neighbor.
The “India Out” campaign gained prominence during Yameen’s tenure and was criticized for its anti-India rhetoric, particularly regarding military cooperation agreements. Critics argued that the movement risked undermining the Maldives' historically important partnership with India under the guise of protecting national sovereignty.
The Muizzu administration, which took office in late 2023, has expressed a commitment to improving relations with India, emphasizing economic cooperation and regional stability.