President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed the administration's full commitment to strengthening the historic and close connections between the Maldives and India. He made these remarks while speaking at the ceremony held at the President’s Office today, to hand over the completed water supply and sewerage facilities on 28 islands in the Maldives, funded by the Government of India’s Line of Credit Facility through EXIM Bank of India.
In his remarks, President Dr. Muizzu highlighted these initiatives would provide significant economic benefits, boost the local economies, and together contribute to the nation's prosperity. The president further added these projects are key milestones in the Maldives' bilateral relations with India.
Furthermore, President Dr. Muizzu also emphasised the High Impact Community Development Projects under Indian Grant Assistance demonstrate both countries' close engagement in socioeconomic development. The president noted that numerous revolutionary initiatives are now underway as part of this initiative, and that the plan is to accelerate their delivery to communities. He expressed sincere appreciation for the flexibility offered in restructuring the line of credit arrangement.
During the ceremony, President Dr. Muizzu stated that India has always been one of the closest allies and invaluable partners, facilitating and providing aid whenever Maldives has needed it. The president extended deep gratitude to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, the government, and the citizens of India for their generous and continued assistance to the Maldives. Recalling his recent visit to India, to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi, the president expressed appreciation for the invitation and the opportunity to meet the prime minister as well as the President of India Droupadi Murmu. He stated extensive discussions focusing on then enhancement of the bilateral relations were held during the visit.
President Dr. Muizzu concluded his speech by underlining that centuries of friendship, mutual respect, and a strong sense of kinship have enhanced the relations between the Maldives and India. The President further stated that Maldivians value the long-standing ties with the Indian people and are committed to its preservation and enhancement. He expressed optimism on seeing Maldives-India cooperation prosper and develop in the coming years. The president also conveyed heartfelt appreciation to Minister Dr. Jaishankar, for the efforts to strengthen relations between the Maldives and India. He noted that the visit portrayed the strengthening of bilateral relation.