The Maldives and India have discussed strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. The discussion took place during the courtesy call by the Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The meeting was held at the VVIP lounge at the Hanimaadhooo International Airport in Haa Dhaalu Atoll.
Speaking at the meeting, President Solih expressed his appreciation to Minister Jaishankar for attending the groundbreaking ceremony of the Hanimaadhoo International Airport expansion project. He added the project would transform the economic landscape of the country and the northern region into an economic hub. He expressed his gratitude to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government, and the friendly people of India for the continued assistance to the Maldives. He also noted the financial and budgetary support provided to the Maldives by the government of India.
During the meeting, President Solih and Minister Jaishankar emphasised the commitment of the two countries to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as tourism cooperation, business-to-business cooperation focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises, and other areas of bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation. They reaffirmed their continued commitment to strengthening the cooperation between the Maldives and India in the coming years.
Furthermore, President Solih highlighted the friendship between the Maldives and India is rooted in cultural and historical links and shared values. He added the Maldives had gained immense benefits under India's Neighbourhood First Policy and assured the continued commitment of the Maldives to upholding its India First Policy.
It is Jaishankar’s fourth visit to the Maldives as the Minister of External Affairs of India. His last visit was in March 2022 to Addu City.
The Maldives and India established diplomatic relations on November 1, 1965.