Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the Maldives' pivotal role in India’s 'Neighbourhood First' policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision during a meeting with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Monday. The two leaders discussed deepening bilateral ties after a period of strained relations between the nations.
"India and Maldives relations are centuries old. India is Maldives' nearest neighbour and close friend," PM Modi said. "Maldives holds an important position in our neighbourhood policy and SAGAR vision. India has always played the role of first responder for Maldives."
Muizzu is on his first state visit to India since assuming office last November. He landed in New Delhi on Sunday with the aim of mending relations while navigating an ailing economy back home.
Ties between India and the Maldives have been fraught ever since Muizzu won the presidency on an 'India Out' campaign and ordered the eviction of Indian troops from the island nation. More recently, he has toned down his anti-India rhetoric, but New Delhi remains wary of his pro-China leanings.
Despite these challenges, both leaders expressed a commitment to enhancing their relationship. PM Modi highlighted India's role in supporting the Maldives during times of crisis. He stated that both countries have adopted a shared vision of a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership.
"Development partnership is an important pillar of our (India-Maldives) relations. We have always given preference to the priorities of the people of Maldives," he added.
The Prime Minister also announced India’s decision to provide critical financial assistance to the Maldives to help it recover from an ongoing economic downturn.
"This year, SBI did a rollover of 100 million dollars of the Treasury Bench of Maldives. As per the needs of Maldives, a 400 million dollars and Rs 3000 crores currency swap agreement was also signed," he said.
Muizzu thanked PM Modi for the financial support and acknowledged that "key partner" India has always stood by the island nation in its time of need. He also invited PM Modi to visit the Maldives, while making a pitch for tourism after a boycott by India put a significant dent in the island nation's main source of revenue.
"India is the largest tourism source market for the Maldives, I hope to welcome more Indian tourists," Muizzu said.
The economic cooperation extends to infrastructure development as well. PM Modi and Muizzu virtually inaugurated the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport, a project supported by India. Other agreements include:
India introduces Rupay card in Maldives
India, Maldives discuss opening of Indian consulate in Addu, and Maldivian consulate in Bengaluru
India hands over 700 social housing units built with its support to Maldives
India will roll over a $50 million Treasury Bill for another year to provide essential budgetary relief to the Maldivian government
India and Maldives set to start talks on a Free Trade Agreement
