Male August 10 2024 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in Male for a three-day official visit aimed at revitalizing India-Maldives relations. His arrival marks the first high-level diplomatic engagement since Maldives’ pro-China President Mohamed Muizzu took office last year. This visit comes after a period of strained relations exacerbated by controversial remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Muizzu’s “India out” campaign.
During his visit, Jaishankar and Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer inaugurated several high-impact community development projects, including advancements in street lighting, mental health services, and special education. Additionally, they signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on introducing a digital payment system and overseeing water and sewerage projects across 28 islands.
Jaishankar emphasized the significance of the Maldives in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, highlighting the strong historical and kinship bonds between the two nations. “Our partnership is foundational to our commitment to the Global South and underscores our prioritization of the neighborhood,” Jaishankar stated.
The visit follows recent improvements in relations, including India’s $50 million loan to the Maldives and the lifting of export restrictions on essential goods. Muizzu’s visit to India in June and positive statements about the trip have further strengthened bilateral ties.
Jaishankar is scheduled to meet President Muizzu on Saturday to discuss future cooperation and initiatives.
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