NEW DELHI: India and the Maldives have reinforced their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation during a meeting between India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and his visiting Maldivian counterpart, Abdulla Khaleel. The two leaders signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement various development projects in the Maldives, funded through India’s grant assistance.
In a statement released by the Indian government, Khaleel expressed his gratitude for the timely emergency financial support provided by India to the Maldives, highlighting India’s role as the “First Responder” during times of crisis.
Foreign Minister Khaleel also reiterated the Maldivian government’s firm commitment to working closely with India to realize the shared vision for the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, as outlined by President Muizzu and the Maldivian government.
Jaishankar, in turn, underscored the significance of the India-Maldives relationship, assuring continued Indian support in line with India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
As part of the visit, the two sides also signed an MoU for the implementation of Phase-III of High Impact Community Development Projects in the Maldives, funded by Indian grant assistance.
“This visit represents a continuation of high-level engagements between the two countries and offers a valuable opportunity to further deepen bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both nations and the broader Indian Ocean Region,” the Indian government said.
