G. Balasubramanian, a seasoned diplomat from the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Maldives. Currently serving as the High Commissioner to Nigeria, Balasubramanian is expected to assume his new role in the coming weeks, following an announcement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Balasubramanian, who joined the IFS in 1998, has extensive experience in diplomatic postings across key international locations. His career includes assignments in Moscow, Dushanbe, Washington DC, and Bangkok, where he served in various capacities, including as Deputy Chief of Mission in Moscow and Bangkok. He was also India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in Bangkok. At the MEA, he has held pivotal roles, such as Desk Officer for Pakistan and Joint Secretary in the Europe West and Administration divisions.
The post of High Commissioner to the Maldives was previously held by Munu Mahawar, who had been in the position since November 2021. During his tenure, Mahawar oversaw significant developments in the partnership between India and the Maldives, which remains a cornerstone of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy.
The Maldives continues to hold a vital place in India’s foreign policy, given its strategic location in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and its role in regional security, maritime safety, and economic collaboration. India and the Maldives share deep-rooted cultural, linguistic, and historical ties, with their diplomatic relations dating back to 1965 when India became one of the first nations to recognise Maldivian independence.
Balasubramanian’s new assignment comes at a significant time, as India and the Maldives strengthen cooperation on critical issues such as defence, maritime security, and sustainable development. His extensive diplomatic experience is expected to contribute to furthering the partnership between the two nations, building on existing frameworks of collaboration to address shared challenges in the region.
The appointment reaffirms the importance India places on its relationship with the Maldives, a key partner in ensuring stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
