The Maldives and India share a longstanding relationship built on mutual trust and confidence, India's High Commissioner to the Maldives, G. Balasubramanian, said in an exclusive interview with PSM News. Describing bilateral ties as a "deep-rooted and enduring partnership", he underscored the strength of diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two nations.
One of India's most significant contributions to the Maldives' development, according to the high commissioner, is the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing regional infrastructure. Within this project, the Thilamalé Bridge, set to link Malé with Thilafushi, stands out as a major undertaking, said High Commissioner Balasubramanian. He expressed confidence in the project's timeline, reaffirming India's role in advancing economic growth through large-scale infrastructure investments.
The high commissioner also reflected on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's visit to India last year, calling it "historic". The high-level diplomatic engagement, he noted, laid the groundwork for closer bilateral cooperation, with ongoing efforts to translate the "vision documents" signed between President Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi into actionable policies. These agreements, he added, are designed to deepen strategic ties and drive joint initiatives forward.
Beyond infrastructure, India continues to invest in human capital development across the Maldives. The high commissioner pointed to 300 scholarships being offered to Maldivian students, supporting skill enhancement and educational opportunities in diverse sectors. This initiative, he said, underscores India's broader commitment to fostering growth through knowledge and expertise.
As both nations look ahead, High Commissioner Balasubramanian expressed confidence that Maldives-India relations will continue to strengthen, with collaboration expanding across diplomatic, economic, and educational spheres.