How Will India and Maldives Enhance Bilateral Cooperation in Fisheries and Aquaculture?
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Synopsis
India and Maldives forge a groundbreaking MoU to enhance cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture, aiming for sustainability and innovation. This collaboration promises to transform the fisheries industry, boost eco-tourism, and foster scientific research, marking a pivotal moment in bilateral relations. Discover how this partnership will shape the future of both nations!
Key Takeaways
- India and Maldives signed MoU to boost fisheries collaboration.
- Focus on sustainable tuna and deep-sea fisheries.
- Investment in cold storage and aquaculture infrastructure.
- Training programs to enhance skills in the fisheries sector.
- Strengthening bilateral ties through diverse agreements.
New Delhi, July 26 (NationPress) The recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between India and the Maldives is set to significantly strengthen their collaboration in fisheries and aquaculture. This initiative is focused on promoting sustainable practices in tuna and deep-sea fisheries, enhancing aquaculture, and improving resource management. Additionally, it aims to boost fisheries-based eco-tourism and support scientific research and innovation across both nations, as stated by the government on Saturday.
Under this agreement, the Department of Fisheries and the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources of the Maldives will work closely to foster bilateral cooperation in these sectors.
This MoU was one of six agreements exchanged during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the island nation, as reported by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
Key collaborative areas highlighted in the MoU include developing the value chain, advancing mariculture, facilitating trade, and enhancing capacity within the fisheries sector.
As part of this collaboration, the Maldives plans to improve its fish processing capabilities by investing in cold storage facilities and boosting the aquaculture sector through hatchery development, improved production efficiency, and diversifying cultured species.
The partnership will also enable training and knowledge-sharing programs focusing on building capacity in aquatic animal health, biosecurity measures, aquaculture management, and specialized fields such as refrigeration, mechanical engineering, and marine engineering, ensuring long-term skill development in the sector.
The ministry emphasized that this cooperation is a testament to the shared vision between India and the Maldives to create a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable future for the fisheries industry.
Additionally, several agreements across various sectors were signed, reaffirming the strong bilateral partnership between India and the Maldives. These agreements include a Line of Credit (LoC) of Rs 4,850 crore to the Maldives, an amended agreement to lower the Maldives’ annual debt repayments on Indian-funded LoCs, the initiation of the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) - Terms of Reference, and various MoUs aimed at cooperation in fisheries, meteorology, and digital solutions.
Point of View
I believe this MoU marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and collaborative future for both India and the Maldives. By focusing on enhancing fisheries and aquaculture, the two nations are not only reinforcing their bilateral ties but also committing to responsible resource management for generations to come.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the MoU signed between India and Maldives?
The MoU aims to enhance collaboration in fisheries and aquaculture, promoting sustainability and innovation in these sectors.
What areas will the cooperation focus on?
Key areas include value chain development, mariculture advancement, capacity building, and trade facilitation.
How will the Maldives improve its fish processing capabilities?
The Maldives plans to invest in cold storage infrastructure and improve aquaculture through hatchery development and efficiency.
What training programs will be implemented?
Training will focus on aquatic animal health, biosecurity, aquaculture management, and specialized technical fields.
What other agreements were signed during Modi's visit?
Several agreements were signed, including a Line of Credit to the Maldives and an MoU on digital transformation cooperation.
