Israeli tourists are warmly welcomed and treated with utmost hospitality," the Israeli Embassy in India said in a post on X and also shared a list of recommendations.The posts mentioned the beautiful beaches of Goa, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands as alternative tourist destinations to Maldives, primarily known for its serene beaches. Israeli Embassy's promotion comes as India and Maldives relations took a nose dive after the election of President Mohamed Muizzu, who came to power on the backs of the ‘India OUT’ campaign. Mohamed Muizzu has displayed close proximity to China and forced India to withdraw its troops from the island nation.
Interestingly, Israel is following India's way of dealing with Maldives. In January this year, a boycott of Maldives was trending in India as people cancelled their holiday plans to the island nation after Maldivian ministers used abusive language for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Several tourism-related companies joined the boycott call and suspended their services in the Maldives.
India's own beach destinations, like Lakshadweep, received major traction during that period, with people spending their holidays in the Union Territory. The impact of India's boycott call was visible soon as last month, a Maldives' minister urged Indians to “be a part of their tourism" as their economy “depends on it". “We have a history.
Our newly elected government also wants to work together [with India]. We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals.
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