With neighborhood leaders as guests, India emphasizes the Indian Ocean region.

Invitations to the heads of state and government from Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and the Seychelles for the June 9 swearing-in of the next Narendra Modi government highlight India's strategic focus on the western and southern Indian Ocean regions. India has long served as a security provider and first responder in these areas during crises. Additionally, the leaders of Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan will also attend, emphasizing India's longstanding relationships and efforts to counter China's growing influence in its immediate neighborhood. China has been seeking strategic assets in the region that could pose a threat to India's security, prompting India to increase its engagement and offer projects to counterbalance Chinese influence in the long term.

Particularly notable is the presence of Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who gained power through a pro-China, anti-India campaign and continued this stance until his party's recent parliamentary victory. However, Muizzu has since reached out to India. Experts on the Indian Ocean Region commend India for its mature handling of the Maldives relationship without retaliating against Muizzu. The Maldivian economy is struggling and needs Indian support, while India is eager to continue projects initiated under the former Ibu Solih administration. Muizzu may be reminded of India's concerns regarding Chinese defense-related activities affecting New Delhi's security interests.