Minister of External Affairs of India Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has emphasised the goal of expanding relations between India and the Maldives beyond the existing areas of cooperation. He made the remarks during a ceremony where he officially handed over documents for the installation of water and sewerage systems on 28 islands, a project supported by the Exim Bank of India under a line of credit.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Jaishankar highlighted the strengthening of India-Maldives ties, noting the relationship has been strengthened in ways that benefit the citizens of both nations. He also said the collaboration in sectors such as health, education, construction, and defense, while expressing a desire to further deepen cooperation in additional areas.
Additionally, Minister Jaishankar acknowledged the vulnerability of the Maldives to climate change, adding that India is prioritising environmentally friendly and climate-resilient projects in the country. The 28-island initiative, which he handed over, is the largest environmentally friendly project ever undertaken in the Maldives with foreign assistance.
Furthermore, Minister Jaishankar noted a significant portion of the electricity needed to operate the water systems will come from renewable energy sources. He also said USD 110 million has been invested in solar power infrastructure.
Minister Jaishankar is currently on an official visit to the Maldives until August 11. During his visit, he also marked the completion of six projects supported by the Indian government and participated in the five million tree planting initiative of the Maldives by planting a tree himself.