India Reinforces Commitment to Maldives Relations, Jaishankar Meets Muizzu

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and other key leaders on Saturday. He assured them that India prioritises its multifaceted relationship with the Maldives and is committed to furthering developmental cooperation. This visit marks the first high-level trip from New Delhi since Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, took office in November last year.

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Jaishankar highlighted the mutual benefits of the India-Maldives partnership, which spans various sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, defence, maritime, agriculture, banking, and climate resilience. "The bedrock of our partnership is the mutual benefit of our peoples," he said. He emphasised that the collaboration aims to meet the aspirations of both nations' citizens.

Development Cooperation and Climate Adaptation

India's development partnership with the Maldives is driven by the needs and priorities of its people and government. This partnership includes grants, loans, budgetary support, capacity building, and training assistance. Jaishankar noted that many projects are now being realised on the ground, delivering tangible benefits to ordinary Maldivians.

During his visit, Jaishankar virtually inaugurated water and sanitation projects on 28 islands under the Indian Line of Credit. These projects have provided safe drinking water to 32 islands and introduced sewerage systems in 17 islands. "I am happy to note that this has directly impacted the lives of 28,000 Maldivians," he said.

Economic Benefits and Bilateral Relations

President Muizzu reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening historic ties with India. He acknowledged India's role as a close ally and invaluable partner, providing aid whenever needed. Muizzu stated that India's initiatives would significantly boost local economies and contribute to national prosperity.

Muizzu expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government, and the people of India for their continued assistance. He recalled his recent visit to India for Modi's swearing-in ceremony and appreciated the opportunity to meet both Prime Minister Modi and President Droupadi Murmu.

Security Cooperation Amidst Regional Tensions

Jaishankar also met Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon to discuss bilateral security cooperation and joint initiatives for maritime security. "A very good meeting with Defence Minister @mgmaumoon. Discussed defence and security cooperation, joint initiatives for maritime security and our shared interest in maintaining peace and stability in the region," Jaishankar posted on X.

This statement came amidst growing military ties between China and the Maldives since President Muizzu took office. A Chinese research vessel recently docked at a Maldivian port, and both countries have signed a bilateral military agreement.

The overall bilateral ties between India and the Maldives have seen an upward trajectory under previous President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government. The Maldives remains one of India's key maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean region.

Jaishankar expressed hope that under President Muizzu's guidance, joint efforts would form an important milestone in the journey of both nations together. "It will be our endeavour to harness this defining feature of our relationship and scale greater heights," he said.