Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has stated the close bilateral ties between the Maldives and India are being criticised by people who are envious of the major development projects conducted by the government under Indian aid.
The foreign minister made the remarks while speaking at the virtual ceremony held to mark the conclusion of the project to install streetlights in Kolhufushi, Meemu Atoll under Indian grant assistance. The foreign minister said the development projects launched across the country by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih are clear for all to see, noting the projects have not been halted despite the challenges and difficulties faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, he highlighted some of the major projects which are scheduled to commence soon, such as the Addu City road development project and the Greater Male’ Connectivity Bridge.
Speaking on the projects conducted under Indian aid, Foreign Minister Shahid said the project to develop the first ever cancer-specialty hospital in the Maldives will begin this year. He also noted the development of Hanimaadhoo Airport and several other important infrastructure projects are currently ongoing.
In his remarks, the foreign minister thanked the Indian government for the generous assistance provided to the Maldives, which makes it possible for the government to launch major infrastructure projects. In response to the heavy criticism faced by the government over the growing relations between the Maldives and India, the minister said such criticism mostly comes from people who are envious of the major development projects conducted by the government under Indian aid. He said the close relations between the Maldives and India are based on the deep connection established between the people of the two countries.