Jaishankar in Maldives: India delivers drinking water project; Greater Malé Connectivity Project in focus

In a major high-level interaction between India and the Maldives, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM)Dr S Jaishankar is visiting the South Asian archipelago nation amid months of bilateral unease between the two sides since pro-China President Muhammad Muizzu was elected to power on an 'India Out' plank, a euphemism to the purported exit of a small number of Indian troops stationed in the island nation.

Jaishankar met President Muizzu in Maléand accompanied his Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer for a site visit to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, an India-funded $500 millionroad project currently under construction that aims to link the capitalwith the islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi in the Maldives. The Greater Malé Connectivity Project is not only the biggest project India is funding in the Maldives but also the biggest infrastructure project in the island nationoverall.

Healso thanked the government of India and Prime Minister NarendraModi for the support provided to the Maldives.

Muizzu said, "I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for always supporting the Maldives. Our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together, we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region."

Following the meeting, the EAMshared a message on X stating, "Privileged to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings of PM @NarendraModi. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region."

Jaishankar also virtually inaugurated and handed over the water and sanitation projects that benefit 28 islands of the Maldives.

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"This project has brought safe drinking water to so many islands, to 32 islands and introduced sewerage system in 17 islands. I am happy to note that this has directly impacted the lives of 28,000 Maldivians I believe. And under this project, latest technologies have been used to provide clean drinking water and safe sewerage disposal. In addition, the buildings are also equipped with solar energy providing support to the island grids. With a total funding of a USD 110 million, this is the largest climate adaptation implemented in Maldives with international collaboration," Jaishankar said.

Joined Foreign Minister @MoosaZameer and Construction & Infrastructure Minister @muththo for a site visit to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.

The flagship project will enhance connectivity and stimulate the economy. pic.twitter.com/sC9y1sIyss — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 10, 2024

Earlier, President Muizzu recognised India consistently being "one of the closest" allies to Maldives. "India has always been one of the closest allies and invaluable partners, facilitating and providing aid whenever Maldives has needed it," acknowledged Muizzu according to a press release issued by the Maldives government.