Foreign Minister Dr Mohamed Asim has left for India as President Abdulla Yameen’s special envoy, at a time of strained relations between the two countries.

Maldivian Ambassador to India Ahmed Mohamed said the minister’s trip will extend from December 10 to 12.

Minister Asim will be meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Minister of External Affairs during the trip.

It was not disclosed why President Yameen himself is not visiting the neighboring country.

India is reportedly uncomfortable with Maldives developing ties with its regional rival, China. Some experts have said that Maldives signing an FTA with China is an especially critical issue.