Maldives and India have engaged in discussions aiming to bolster the bilateral relations between the two states, in the trade sector. The comprehensive discussions were held between Minister of External Affairs of India Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Finance Mohamed Shafeeq and the Governor of the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) Ahmed Munawwar.
During the ceremony, the dignitaries discussed providing assistance and support in developmental projects, in addition to the enhancement of trade relations. While the discussions centred across strengthening trade between the two nations, a Maldives Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the Maldives with NIPI International Payments Limited (NIPL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), aiming to advance the nation's e-commerce sector. The agreement, signed between the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and NIPL, aligns with the goals outlined in President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's manifesto, particularly in fostering opportunities in the creator economy, expanding e-commerce, and broadening participation in the financial market. Meanwhile, Minister Saeed disclosed plans to introduce India's RuPay Cards to the Maldives.
While efforts are underway to enhance the bilateral ties between the two nations, several projects are currently ongoing in the Maldives, with the assistance of India. Such projects include the ongoing development of the Thila Male' Bridge.