Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu was warmly welcomed on his first state visit to India, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries. Muizzu, who came to power promising to remove Indian troops from the archipelago, met with Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi to discuss various areas of cooperation, including energy, trade, financial support, and defense cooperation.
Despite the delay in his official visit, India announced financial support to help bolster the Maldives’ struggling economy. Modi stressed that India would continue to support the progress and prosperity of the Maldivian people. The discussions between the two leaders included the inauguration of an Indian-supported airport runway and social housing project, as well as the development of the commercial port at Thilafushi to alleviate congestion at the port in Male.
Muizzu thanked India for the budgetary support provided, which has been instrumental in addressing foreign exchange issues in the Maldives. India agreed to a currency swap agreement worth 30 billion rupees and US$400 million. The two nations also plan to start talks on a potential free trade agreement, further enhancing their economic cooperation. Despite their growing collaboration, Muizzu reiterated that the Maldives remains committed to not compromising the security and stability of the region.
India met Muizzu’s deadline to withdraw a contingent of 78 soldiers stationed in the Maldives, which had been operating two helicopters and a fixed-wing plane. While the troops were removed, civilian Indian crew members continue to operate the aircraft. Muizzu emphasized that his actions were in line with the wishes of the Maldivian people and that the country would never do anything to undermine India’s security. Both countries are working to enhance cooperation with other nations while ensuring the security and stability of the region remains a top priority.
The state visit marked a significant step in strengthening the relationship between India and the Maldives, with both leaders expressing a commitment to further collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The financial support provided by India was seen as a crucial boost to the Maldivian economy, helping to address pressing foreign exchange issues. The discussions between Modi and Muizzu paved the way for future cooperation, with plans for increased trade, energy partnerships, and defense cooperation on the horizon.
The inauguration of an Indian-supported airport runway and social housing project highlighted the tangible benefits of the friendship between India and the Maldives. Both countries emphasized the importance of enhancing economic ties and working towards a free trade agreement. Despite initial concerns about the presence of Indian troops in the Maldives, Muizzu’s visit signified a turning point in the relationship, with a renewed focus on mutual cooperation and economic development. India’s continued support for the Maldives underlines the commitment to fostering prosperity and stability in the region.
