India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar has stated that India is swift to respond and provide assistance to the Maldives in times of need due to the close bilateral relations between both countries. The Minister made the statement during a meeting with the Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel in New Delhi, India.
During the meeting, Minister Jaishankar noted that Minister Khaleel is the first foreign diplomat he had met this year and extended a warm welcome to him.
Highlighting that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s official visit to India in October last year further enhanced the bond between both countries, Minister Jaishankar said a significant outcome of the visit was a the signing of a currency swap agreement between both countries. This agreement has facilitatesd the use of local currency for business transactions between the two countries, he noted. Cooperation in other areas has also increased, he added.
Dr Jaishankar reiterated that the Maldives is a prime example of providing assistance under India’s Neighbourhood First Policy. He emphasised that India is always with the Maldives and remains steadfast in its support. While the Maldives is facing significant economic challenges, India has provided financial assistance to the Maldives and continues to provide essential goods to the Maldives without disruption, which reinforcing the partnership between both counties, he noted.
Speaking at the meeting, Maldives Foreign Minister Khaleel highlighted that it has been 60 years since the Maldives established diplomatic relations with India. He emphasised that India is an important partner to the Maldives., describing the relationship between both countries as based on respect, trust and close friendship. He also acknowledged that India is consistently the first to respond during times of crisis.
“President Dr Mohamed Muizzu wishes to work closely with India. He is committed to further strengthen relations between both countries,” the Minister said.
The Minister’s ongoing visit to India marks his first official visit to India since assuming office on 30 September. During the visit, the Minister will engage in discussions to further enhance ties with India and increase cooperation across various sectors.
President Dr Muizzu’s visit to India was also a successful visit where official talks were held between both countries.