The Maldives is currently undertaking numerous developmental projects with the assistance of the Indian government, a testament to the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel stated.
The foreign minister made this statement in an interview with international news outlet WION during his recent official visit to New Delhi, India. During the visit, Minister Khaleel met with India's Minister of External Affairs, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, where they reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and discussed new areas for future collaboration.
Minister Khaleel characterised India-Maldives relations as historic in his interview with WION and underscored that the enduring nature of this relationship stems from mutual respect, trust, and close friendship. India's unwavering commitment to maintaining robust ties with the Maldives is evidenced by the numerous developmental initiatives supported by the Indian government, he said.
Citing the 'Maldives First' policy of President Dr Mohamed Miuzzu, Minister Khaleel stressed the administration's foreign policy focused on strengthening ties with all countries. "...during the visit of President Dr Muizzu, India committed a USD 400 million currency swap and that was arranged immediately right after the visit. That USD 400 million has given ease to the financial situation at the moment the Maldives is facing," stated Minister Khaleel.
"And, we also discussed during the visit a local currency settlement agreement as well. The MoU [Memorandum of Understanding] was signed, and we are working to facilitate that as well. Besides that, several other assistances were also provided by India. An MVR 100 million, which is approximately USD 6 million, worth of high-impact community development programs were granted to the Maldives."
The foreign minister also noted cooperation between the two neighbours in the defence sector and regional security of the Indian Ocean region. One of the largest developmental initiatives currently progressing in the Maldives is the Malé-Thilafushi bridge project, carried out with Indian assistance. Citing this, Minister Khaleel highlighted President Dr Muizzu's efforts to expedite the project through high-level meetings with officials from both nations.
Projects to develop 4,000 housing units are also advancing in the Maldives with Indian support. Minister Khaleel described the Maldives as a highly favoured tourist destination, particularly renowned among prominent figures in the entertainment industry from India. He expressed confidence that India will remain a vital developmental partner for the Maldives and commended India's dedication to assisting its neighbouring countries while simultaneously advancing its own development.
In conclusion, Minister Khaleel affirmed that the foreign policy of President Dr Muizzu's administration is founded on fostering and sustaining bilateral and multilateral relations while safeguarding the country's sovereignty and independence. He also conveyed his optimism regarding the future of India-Maldives relations, highlighting that significant progress has been made over the past year.