Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu made a three-day state visit to Pakistan earlier this month. Both countries signed 20 MoUs “to strengthen their relations in various fields”, including socio-economic development sectors, cybersecurity, drug trafficking, and defence and maritime security. They aim to launch direct flights and increase trade from $13 million to $200 million in the next two years. The Maldives also organised a business forum to explore investments and economic opportunities.

The visit underscores Muizzu’s interest in pursuing strong relations with Sunni Muslim nations and diversifying ties beyond India . This, however, risks compromising India’s long-term security and strategic interests. India, which has largely accommodated the Maldives’ agency, should now gradually up the ante.

Geography and religion have largely shaped Maldives-Pakistan relations.…