Maldives Faces Tourism Setback as Indians Cancel Thousands of Bookings Amidst Diplomatic Strain

 Delhi: 08-Jan-2023

In a surprising turn of events, over 10,500 hotel bookings and 5,520 flight tickets to the Maldives have been canceled by Indian tourists following alleged abusive statements made by Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Modi, India, and Hindus. The repercussions of these cancellations pose a significant blow to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who had previously spearheaded the controversial "India Out" campaign.


The diplomatic strain between India and the Maldives escalated after inflammatory comments were attributed to Maldivian ministers, sparking widespread outrage among the Indian populace. As a result, tourists have taken to online forums and travel booking platforms to express their disappointment and anger, flooding the platforms with negative comments and reviews.


The cancellation of such a large number of bookings not only affects the Maldivian tourism industry but also raises concerns about the overall bilateral relations between the two nations. The Maldives, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant marine life, has been a favored destination for Indian tourists, making up a significant portion of their international visitors.


The impact is not limited to the tourism sector, as economic repercussions are anticipated due to the sudden drop in revenue from canceled bookings. Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu now faces the challenging task of damage control to salvage the country's image and restore confidence among potential visitors.


In the wake of these events, diplomatic channels between India and the Maldives are likely to witness heightened tensions, with officials from both sides expected to address the situation and work towards resolving the issue. The fallout from the canceled bookings serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of diplomacy and tourism, underscoring the need for careful handling of international relations to prevent economic setbacks for nations heavily reliant on tourism.



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