Picture Source : Courtesy @MMuizzu
The External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S Jaishankar, undertook an official visit to the Maldives from August 9-11, 2024. During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar met with high-ranking officials, including President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, and other ministers, to discuss various aspects of bilateral relations.
Deepening India-Maldives Relations
Dr. Jaishankar called on President Muizzu and extended greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The President appreciated India’s continued developmental assistance and reaffirmed his commitment to deepening the relationship. The two sides jointly inaugurated the India-assisted water and sewerage network project in 28 islands of Maldives.
Strengthening Defence and Security Partnership
Dr. Jaishankar held productive discussions with the Defence Minister, reaffirming their commitment to deepen the defence and security partnership. He also met with the Ministers of Finance, Economic Development & Trade, and the Governor of Maldives Monetary Authority to discuss ways to strengthen trade and economic ties.
MoUs and Project Inaugurations
During the visit, MoUs on capacity building and introduction of UPI in Maldives were exchanged. Six High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) were jointly inaugurated, and a sapling was planted as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ initiative.
Visit to India-Assisted Projects
Dr. Jaishankar visited the India-assisted Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) site and reviewed the progress. He also inaugurated the Addu Reclamation and Shore Protection Project and Addu Detour Link Bridge Project in Addu city.
Reaffirming Commitment to Bilateral Relations
The visit highlighted the importance of Maldives as a key partner in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision ‘SAGAR’. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their multi-dimensional bilateral relationship and deepening people-to-people ties.