As Maldives’ closest and oldest neighbours, India and Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in the island nation’s recognition as an independent nation - a relationship intertwined with centuries of culture, trade and history.
This age-old relationship has withstood the test of time, further evident when the leaders of the two neighbouring countries visited the Maldives this month, underscoring the commitment of both nations to solidify relations.
The official visit of the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi accentuated the crucial role India has played and continues to play in the social and infrastructure development in the Maldives. During the historic visit, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated several key infrastructure development projects and signed a framework agreement to provide an additional USD 565 million line of credit facility for further projects. A total of eight mutually beneficial bilateral agreements were signed to enhance the excellent strategic partnership between the two friendly nations.
Despite futile attempts in some quarters to imply that relations with neighbouring India have soured in recent times, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu dismissed such concerns, reflecting on the 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India celebrated this year, which he described as a milestone that reflects not only shared history, but also the depth and resilience of this partnership.
“Yet, the bond between our peoples predates diplomatic formalities. For centuries, the Indian Ocean has been a witness to our shared journey — as traders, travelers, and neighbours, we exchanged goods, stories, and ideas across these waters, for centuries,” he said.
“It is the same ocean that unites us today — with ties that no tide can break.”
Immediately after the Indian leader, the arrival of the President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Disanayaka revealed Maldives’ incontrovertible emphasis on reinforcing ties with its neighbours.
President Disanayake’s first visit to the Maldives since assuming office late last year proves the mutual commitment by Sri Lanka to enhancing the age-old relationship with Maldives.
The Treaty and the Memorandum of Understanding exchanged during the visit, reflect the shared commitment to further strengthening the close ties between Maldives and Sri Lanka.
President Dr Muizzu recognised the importance of people-to-people connections that exist between Maldives and Sri Lanka and acknowledged the positive contributions made by the communities residing in each other’s countries.
“Our two nations have long cooperated in vital areas — education, health, and human resource development. But over time, this partnership has grown, evolved, and diversified,” President Dr Muizzu said.
As President Dr Muizzu aptly described, India and Sri Lanka are more than just Maldives’ neighbours. The relationship is deeply rooted in history, in shared values and in the close kinship of our peoples.
The two State visits by the leaders of Maldives’ closest neighbours is testament that these bonds are defined by trust, mutual respect, and enduring friendship.