The recent summoning of Maldives High Commissioner to India, Ibrahim Shaheeb, by the Indian External Affairs Ministry adds a layer of intricacy to the diplomatic relationship between the two nations. Against the backdrop of escalating tensions on social media, fueled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tourism promotion in Lakshadweep, this article explores the context of the summons, the ongoing digital discourse, and the potential ramifications for diplomatic ties.
Ibrahim Shaheeb, Maldives high commissioner to India, a seasoned diplomat, initiated his career in 1991 within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, gradually progressing from a junior officer to various pivotal roles. Armed with a Master’s in Public Administration from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and a Bachelor of Arts from the Australian National University. Proficient in English and Dhivehi, with a basic grasp of German, Shaheeb is not only committed to diplomacy but also finds joy in sports during his leisure time. As a dedicated family man, he is married and has three sons.
Image courtesy: maldivesmission.sg
The High Commission of India in the Maldives asserted that the visit of the Indian High Commissioner to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was a pre-arranged affair. However, the precise agenda of the meeting remains undisclosed, leaving room for speculation. Pre-scheduled engagements in diplomatic circles are typically avenues to address ongoing matters or uphold transparent communication channels between nations.
The recent exchange between the Maldives and India on social media platforms, triggered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tourism promotion in Lakshadweep, has given rise to heightened tensions. What commenced as a tourism initiative has evolved into a heated discourse, with certain Maldivian individuals interpreting it as a targeted campaign against their nation. This virtual clash has become a focal point for diplomatic scrutiny, as sentiments expressed online echo in the real-world diplomatic sphere.
The aftermath of the social media controversy witnessed the suspension of three Deputy Ministers from the Youth Ministry – Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Maajid. The government, in a statement issued prior to their suspension, clarified that derogatory remarks against foreign leaders signify personal opinions and do not represent the views of the government. Nevertheless, it underscored the importance of expressing personal views democratically and responsibly.
Summoning the envoy of another country is a diplomatic maneuver typically indicating dissatisfaction and opposition to various issues. While the specifics of the meeting between the Maldives High Commissioner and the Indian External Affairs Ministry remain undisclosed, such summonses often serve as a direct means for nations to communicate their concerns. The timing of this summons, amidst the social media uproar, adds a layer of intrigue to the unfolding diplomatic narrative.
This isn’t the first instance of Indian envoys to the Maldives facing summons. In 2016, the then High Commissioner, Akilesh Mishra, received a summons over the denial of entry into India for the ruling party’s Parliamentary Group Leader, Ahmed Nihan Hussain Manik. In 2018, High Commissioner Akhilesh Mishra faced a summons over an Indian MP’s provocative tweet suggesting military intervention in the Maldives in case of election rigging.
As diplomatic tensions persist, the Maldives and India find themselves navigating uncharted waters. The social media-driven dispute has transcended virtual platforms and permeated official channels, resulting in the summoning of the Maldives High Commissioner. The undisclosed nature of the meeting and the historical context of envoys being summoned underscore the sensitivity of the situation. In such instances, diplomacy requires astute navigation to address concerns and ensure that relations between these neighboring nations remain robust. The forthcoming days may shed light on the trajectory of this diplomatic saga, with both nations facing the challenge of reconciling differences while preserving the essence of their diplomatic ties.
