India and Maldives on Monday agreed to elevate the ties to a comprehensive economic and strategic partnership, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the visiting President of Maldives Mohamed Muizzu in New Delhi.
After the bilateral talks in Hyderabad House, Muizzu said, “The Maldives will remain a friend committed to our shared vision of peace and development in our countries and our region.” He also invited Modi to visit Maldives next year to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
PM Modi described India as the “first responder” for Maldives, in times of crisis — from the pandemic to drinking water shortage. He also said they have decided to start negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement.
The two leaders also witnessed the exchange of five pacts — including one on currency swap. Other pacts are on the training of judicial officers, prevention of corruption, law enforcement training, and sports and youth affairs. They also launched the Rupay card in the Maldives, handed over 700 social housing units, and inaugurated a new airport runway at the Hanimaadhoo International Airport.
On the economic help for the Maldives, Muizzu said, “I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi, the government, and the people of India for generous assistance and cooperation extended to the Maldives over the years, including the recent budgetary support in the form of rollover of the T (treasury) bills. I’m thankful for the Indian government’s decision to provide support in the form of Rs 30 billion, in addition to a $400 million bilateral currency swap agreement, which will be instrumental in addressing the foreign exchange issues we are facing right now. Our discussions today underscored a shared commitment to remain engaged on further measures that will bolster the Maldives economic resilience and stability.” India has already offered financial support worth $1.4 billion to Male for various infrastructure and development projects.
Ahead of his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, Maldives President Muizzu had flagged the need for financial aid to his country, saying Delhi is “fully cognisant” of the island nation’s fiscal situation and will always be ready to “ease the burden” as one of Male’s biggest development partners. Ties between the two countries have been under strain ever since Muizzu rode to power last November on an ‘India Out’ election plank.
Earlier, Muizzu was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhawan by President Droupadi Murmu. Prime Minister Modi was also present on the occasion. He also visited Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial.
Muizzu reached New Delhi on Sunday on his first bilateral five-day visit and was received at the airport by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. During his visit from October 6 to 10, he will also travel to Agra, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
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