Is India the Most Trusted Friend of Maldives?

Male, July 25 (NationPress) Referring to the Maldives as "vital" in India's Neighbourhood First strategy and the MAHASAGAR initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed great pride on Friday in being Male's "most trusted ally", emphasizing that India has consistently been the first to respond in times of crisis.

During a press briefing alongside Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, PM Modi extended his congratulations to the citizens of the Indian Ocean nation on the 60th anniversary of their independence, expressing gratitude to Muizzu for the invitation as the 'Guest of Honour' for this momentous celebration.

"This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and Maldives. However, the foundations of our relationship are older than history itself and as profound as the ocean. The commemorative stamps unveiled today feature traditional boats from both nations, symbolizing that we are not merely neighbours but also co-passengers on this journey," PM Modi remarked.

"India is the closest neighbour to the Maldives. The Maldives plays a significant role in India's Neighbourhood First strategy and the MAHASAGAR vision. We take immense pride in being the Maldives' most trusted friend. Whether facing natural disasters or pandemics, India has always stood alongside them as the first responders. From ensuring the availability of essential goods to aiding in economic recovery post-COVID, our collaboration has been unwavering. For us, it has always been about friendship first," he further stated.

He highlighted that the growing cooperation in defence and security between the two nations is a testament to their "mutual trust." PM Modi also mentioned the Defence Ministry Building, inaugurated on Friday, which features a large portrait of himself.

"Our collaborative efforts in defence and security signify our mutual trust. The newly inaugurated Defence Ministry building stands as a tangible representation of our robust partnership," he stated.

PM Modi announced that India would provide a Line of Credit (LoC) of USD 565 million to the Maldives, revealing that both nations have taken significant steps to bolster their economic partnership.

"During the President's visit to India last October, we outlined a vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Partnership, which is now coming to fruition. This progress has elevated our relationship to new heights. The inauguration of various projects has become feasible, including 4,000 social housing units built with India's assistance, which will provide new beginnings for numerous families in the Maldives. The Greater Male Connectivity Project, the Addu Road Development Project, and the upgraded Hanimaadhoo International Airport will transform this region into a vital transit and economic hub. Additionally, the upcoming ferry system will simplify travel between islands, changing the way we measure distance to just ferry time instead of GPS," he added.

The two leaders delivered a joint statement following their meeting, during which they reviewed the full range of India-Maldives relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further enhancing bilateral ties.

"To expedite mutual investments, we are working on finalizing the Bilateral Investment Treaty. We are also in talks to develop a Free Trade Agreement. Our objective is to transition from paperwork to prosperity. With the local currency settlement system, we can facilitate direct trade between the Rupee and Rufiyaa. The rapid adoption of UPI in the Maldives will further strengthen tourism and retail," PM Modi noted.

He also stated that India and the Maldives will enhance regional maritime cooperation through the Colombo Security Conclave, acknowledging climate change as a "significant challenge" for both countries.

"Our shared goals include peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region. Together, through the Colombo Security Conclave, we will bolster regional maritime security. Climate change poses a major challenge for both nations, and we have decided to advance renewable energy initiatives, with India sharing its expertise with the Maldives in this area," he added.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome and a guard of honour at the Republic Square in Male as he commenced his official engagements during a two-day State Visit to the Maldives.

In a notable gesture, President Muizzu personally welcomed PM Modi at the airport in Male upon his arrival from the United Kingdom, with the Maldives' Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of Homeland Security also present.

PM Modi expressed that he was "deeply touched" by Muizzu's thoughtful gesture. He expressed confidence that the relationship between the two nations will reach new heights of progress in the future.

"Just landed in Male. I am deeply moved by President Muizzu's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. I am optimistic that the India-Maldives friendship will achieve new heights of progress in the future," PM Modi shared on X.

PM Modi is set to participate in the country's 60th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour on Saturday. This marks his third visit to the Maldives and notably the first by any head of state or government since Muizzu took office.