Ibrahim Mohamed Solih vs Sergio Mattarella

Solih was elected President, defeating incumbent Abdulla Yameen. His victory was seen as a restoration of democracy after Yameen's authoritarian rule, with promises of judicial reform and international engagement.

Solih's government released former President Nasheed and other political prisoners, and took steps to restore judicial independence. These actions were praised by international human rights organizations.

Solih pursued a pro-India foreign policy, signing agreements on infrastructure, defense, and health cooperation. He visited India multiple times, positioning the Maldives as a key partner in India's 'Neighborhood First' policy.

Solih was defeated in the presidential election by Mohamed Muizzu, who campaigned on a pro-China platform. The election marked a shift in Maldivian foreign policy back toward China.

Mattarella was elected as the 12th President of Italy on the fourth ballot, succeeding Giorgio Napolitano. A constitutional court judge and former minister, his election was seen as a choice for institutional stability and anti-corruption.

After the 2018 general election produced a hung parliament, Mattarella appointed Giuseppe Conte as Prime Minister to lead a coalition between the Five Star Movement and the League. This marked a shift to a populist government.

During the COVID-19 pandemic and a government crisis, Mattarella appointed former ECB President Mario Draghi to lead a national unity government. This was seen as a move to secure EU recovery funds and manage the health crisis.

Mattarella was re-elected as President on the eighth ballot at age 80, after political parties failed to agree on an alternative. He initially declined but accepted to avoid a constitutional crisis, serving a second term.