New Delhi: Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has described bilateral relations with India as “long-standing” and “very close”, signalling a push to accelerate cooperation during her first official visit as minister to Delhi.&nbsp;Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, following her meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, FM Adam emphasised the complementary nature of the two countries' policies. “Our first foreign policy [under] President Dr Muizzu and the Indian Prime Minister Modi’s neighbourhood first policy... complement each other,” she said. The two nations are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations.&nbsp;Adam highlighted extensive development partnership projects in infrastructure, social housing, connectivity, transport, harbours and airports. “These are very important projects that impact the lives of the people,” she added. Both sides agreed to expedite implementation. “We will make sure that from both sides... we will try to step up and speed up the process... ensure that the projects are implemented timely and delivered.”&nbsp;India has been a key development partner and first responder, providing COVID vaccines and assistance during crises. Adam acknowledged recent financial support amid the West Asia conflict’s fallout on supply chains, food, fuel and medicine.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This facility will help us in the short-term... supplying the food commodities, subsidies,” she explained when asked about India’s Rs 30 billion financial assistance under SAARC currency swap.&nbsp;The Maldives government settled previous debts, including $50 million payments due to India in April and September. “We have settled this payment... we do not have a default, which would be very [hard] on the people,” Adam said.&nbsp;On the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Adam expressed optimism. “Negotiations [and] consultations have already been convened... we will try to sign the free trade agreement this year.” She said this would boost trade, investment, tourism and infrastructure, calling it an “excellent signal” for the 60th anniversary.&nbsp;Tourism, a vital sector for the island nation, remains a focus. India is the sixth-largest source market. “We have noted that India is the 6th largest tourist market for the Maldives... with the diversification of the market that will help... people-to-people contact.”&nbsp;Defence and security ties were described positively. “Maldives and India enjoy... bilateral cooperation,” Adam said, citing capacity building, joint exercises and assistance to Maldives’ forces. Both nations, sharing Indian Ocean geography, cooperate through forums like IORA and the Colombo Security Conclave to promote “peace and security in the region.”&nbsp;Adam addressed past anti-India sentiment. “Any difficulty or misunderstanding may or might have been... we do not know how it can be, or it could be from external sources,” she said, adding the current governments are committed to strengthening ties.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We believe that... we will strengthen the relations.”&nbsp;On the Strait of Hormuz disruptions from the West Asian war, the minister stressed the Maldives' advocacy for open maritime passages. “We advocate... maritime... passages are allowed so that the essential goods and the needed supplies reach the people.”&nbsp;Adam, a 25-year diplomacy veteran and former High Commissioner to London who won a top Asian-Oceania diplomat award, is the 2nd woman to be the foreign minister of the Maldives.

Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam acknowledged the recent financial support amid the West Asia conflict’s fallout on supply chains, food, fuel and medicine. The Maldives government settled previous debts, including $50 million payments due to India in April and September.

New Delhi: Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has described bilateral relations with India as “long-standing” and “very close”, signalling a push to accelerate cooperation during her first official visit as minister to Delhi. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, following her meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, FM Adam emphasised the complementary nature of the two countries' policies. “Our first foreign policy [under] President Dr Muizzu and the Indian Prime Minister Modi’s neighbourhood first policy... complement each other,” she said. The two nations are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations. Adam highlighted extensive development partnership projects in infrastructure, social housing, connectivity, transport, harbours and airports. “These are very important projects that impact the lives of the people,” she added. Both sides agreed to expedite implementation. “We will make sure that from both sides... we will try to step up and speed up the process... ensure that the projects are implemented timely and delivered.” India has been a key development partner and first responder, providing COVID vaccines and assistance during crises. Adam acknowledged recent financial support amid the West Asia conflict’s fallout on supply chains, food, fuel and medicine. “This facility will help us in the short-term... supplying the food commodities, subsidies,” she explained when asked about India’s Rs 30 billion financial assistance under SAARC currency swap. The Maldives government settled previous debts, including $50 million payments due to India in April and September. “We have settled this payment... we do not have a default, which would be very [hard] on the people,” Adam said. On the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Adam expressed optimism. “Negotiations [and] consultations have already been convened... we will try to sign the free trade agreement this year.” She said this would boost trade, investment, tourism and infrastructure, calling it an “excellent signal” for the 60th anniversary. Tourism, a vital sector for the island nation, remains a focus. India is the sixth-largest source market. “We have noted that India is the 6th largest tourist market for the Maldives... with the diversification of the market that will help... people-to-people contact.” Defence and security ties were described positively. “Maldives and India enjoy... bilateral cooperation,” Adam said, citing capacity building, joint exercises and assistance to Maldives’ forces. Both nations, sharing Indian Ocean geography, cooperate through forums like IORA and the Colombo Security Conclave to promote “peace and security in the region.” Adam addressed past anti-India sentiment. “Any difficulty or misunderstanding may or might have been... we do not know how it can be, or it could be from external sources,” she said, adding the current governments are committed to strengthening ties. “We believe that... we will strengthen the relations.” On the Strait of Hormuz disruptions from the West Asian war, the minister stressed the Maldives' advocacy for open maritime passages. “We advocate... maritime... passages are allowed so that the essential goods and the needed supplies reach the people.” Adam, a 25-year diplomacy veteran and former High Commissioner to London who won a top Asian-Oceania diplomat award, is the 2nd woman to be the foreign minister of the Maldives.

Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam acknowledged the recent financial support amid the West Asia conflict’s fallout on supply chains, food, fuel and medicine. The Maldives government settled previous debts, including $50 million payments due to India in April and September.

Maldives eyes India FTA signing by end of 2026, says Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam

Former Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem has described India as the Maldives’ “closest ally and partner”, emphasising New Delhi’s long-standing role as a reliable first responder in times of crisis. In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Naseem highlighted India’s swift military intervention during the 1988 coup attempt to sending vaccines during COVID pandemic. “India has been there whenever we needed its assistance,” he stated.&nbsp;Faisal Naseem was in Delhi to deliver the 8th Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture organised by think tank India Foundation. He spoke on the theme “Peace, Democracy and Islam – The Maldivian Experience”.&nbsp;He was the Vice President of Maldives from 2018-2023, during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s term. On maritime security, including illegal fishing and other threats in the Indian Ocean, Naseem stressed close collaboration. “We work very closely with India, especially [on] Indian Ocean security,” he noted. “We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean from illegal fishing and also other kinds of peace that are harming the people.” Here’s the full interview:&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Maldives ties?Faisal Naseem: 1988, when we had an existential threat during the time of PM Rajiv Gandhi, we had Indian support very swiftly and order was restored. India has been our closest ally and partner. India has always supported Maldives in times of need. Even during our time, the MDP government, we had a wonderful, great relationship with India. India’s support for our developments as a partner was immense. Even today, with the recent visit of the President of the Maldives, I think, things are settling and then we will be working together.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: And India has been the first responder...Faisal Naseem: Yes, during 1988 we had this coup attempt, India was there. Swift action was taken by the Indian government. When we had a water crisis in Male, India responded very swiftly. During the pandemic, everybody had problems, but even at that difficult time, India gave special thought. They provided us with vaccines and also opened its doors for Maldivians to travel to India for further medical care. So today we see that India is very close, very close to the country as a partner. If you see the developments taking place in the Maldives, like airports, housing and other projects, like high impact projects within the islands for its people, it's India. So we have the India first policy in the Maldives. Relationship has been very good, and will last for the betterment of the 2 people.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: We saw the last election, where there was the ‘India out’ campaign by the government which is in power, the government has distanced itself so far from that, and the relationship looks good now. But do you think that so called campaign is part of politics?Faisal Naseem: You can see that the government is now coming very close to India and working with India. So I only see that it is just during a very heated campaign. So sometimes people use different techniques. Misinformation is also spread, sometimes for personal gain. So today I see that it is just the other way around. This government is working with the Indian government today.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Concern over radicalization, that has been a big concern in the region.Faisal Naseem: Well we have worked together with all different groups and different associations and the government is very much involved in this. We come to the table and tackle our own problems. So, I would say that we will work towards peace, and then we will have a peaceful country that everybody loves, prioritises.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How are you making sure that this region is not facing any challenges like illegal fishing, like the presence of pirates as well? So how are you collaborating with the countries of the region?Faisal Naseem: Well, to overcome all these challenges, we are working very closely with India, especially the Indian Ocean security is very important. We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean and prevent illegal fishing.

Former Maldivian VP Faisal Naseem stressed close collaboration on maritime security, including illegal fishing and other threats in the Indian Ocean. We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean from illegal fishing and other things that are harming the people, he added.

Former Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem has described India as the Maldives’ “closest ally and partner”, emphasising New Delhi’s long-standing role as a reliable first responder in times of crisis. In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Naseem highlighted India’s swift military intervention during the 1988 coup attempt to sending vaccines during COVID pandemic. “India has been there whenever we needed its assistance,” he stated. Faisal Naseem was in Delhi to deliver the 8th Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture organised by think tank India Foundation. He spoke on the theme “Peace, Democracy and Islam – The Maldivian Experience”. He was the Vice President of Maldives from 2018-2023, during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s term. On maritime security, including illegal fishing and other threats in the Indian Ocean, Naseem stressed close collaboration. “We work very closely with India, especially [on] Indian Ocean security,” he noted. “We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean from illegal fishing and also other kinds of peace that are harming the people.” Here’s the full interview: Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Maldives ties? Faisal Naseem: 1988, when we had an existential threat during the time of PM Rajiv Gandhi, we had Indian support very swiftly and order was restored. India has been our closest ally and partner. India has always supported Maldives in times of need. Even during our time, the MDP government, we had a wonderful, great relationship with India. India’s support for our developments as a partner was immense. Even today, with the recent visit of the President of the Maldives, I think, things are settling and then we will be working together. Sidhant Sibal: And India has been the first responder... Faisal Naseem: Yes, during 1988 we had this coup attempt, India was there. Swift action was taken by the Indian government. When we had a water crisis in Male, India responded very swiftly. During the pandemic, everybody had problems, but even at that difficult time, India gave special thought. They provided us with vaccines and also opened its doors for Maldivians to travel to India for further medical care. So today we see that India is very close, very close to the country as a partner. If you see the developments taking place in the Maldives, like airports, housing and other projects, like high impact projects within the islands for its people, it's India. So we have the India first policy in the Maldives. Relationship has been very good, and will last for the betterment of the 2 people. Sidhant Sibal: We saw the last election, where there was the ‘India out’ campaign by the government which is in power, the government has distanced itself so far from that, and the relationship looks good now. But do you think that so called campaign is part of politics? Faisal Naseem: You can see that the government is now coming very close to India and working with India. So I only see that it is just during a very heated campaign. So sometimes people use different techniques. Misinformation is also spread, sometimes for personal gain. So today I see that it is just the other way around. This government is working with the Indian government today. Sidhant Sibal: Concern over radicalization, that has been a big concern in the region. Faisal Naseem: Well we have worked together with all different groups and different associations and the government is very much involved in this. We come to the table and tackle our own problems. So, I would say that we will work towards peace, and then we will have a peaceful country that everybody loves, prioritises. Sidhant Sibal: How are you making sure that this region is not facing any challenges like illegal fishing, like the presence of pirates as well? So how are you collaborating with the countries of the region? Faisal Naseem: Well, to overcome all these challenges, we are working very closely with India, especially the Indian Ocean security is very important. We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean and prevent illegal fishing.

Former Maldivian VP Faisal Naseem stressed close collaboration on maritime security, including illegal fishing and other threats in the Indian Ocean. We work with the Indian government to protect the Indian Ocean and prevent illegal fishing, he added.

‘India has been our closest ally and partner:’ Former Maldives VP Naseem

India has reaffirmed its commitment to major infrastructure in the Maldives&nbsp;as ties between the 2 countries see an uptick. Maldives Minister of Construction &amp; Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Maldives Minister of Transport &amp; Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen and Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar made an official visit to Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development Site earlier this week. The project, developed with Indian support and assistance, is around 67 per cent complete.

Explaining how the project will help the country, Indian High Commissioner Mahawar said, "Hanimaadhoo International Airport project is a major infrastructure project that is being implemented with Indian support and Indian assistance in Maldives. This project will have a transformative impact for the entire northern region of Maldives. It will improve connectivity, it will boost tourism and it will also stimulate other economic activities."

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Hanimadhoo International Airport, being built under Indian LoC assistance, will have a transformative impact on northern region of Maldives. 
 
Appreciate significant progress seen during site visit by <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbMunu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbMunu</a> with Ministers of Infrastructure <a href="https://twitter.com/muththo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@muththo</a>, &amp; Civil Aviation <a href="https://twitter.com/ameen3d?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ameen3d</a>. <a href="https://t.co/lQN4A9s9hO">https://t.co/lQN4A9s9hO</a> <a href="https://t.co/n4nrZtZfDL">pic.twitter.com/n4nrZtZfDL</a>
— India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) <a href="https://twitter.com/HCIMaldives/status/1813574521498058999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The&nbsp;Ceremony of the Hanimaadhoo International Airport Redevelopment Project was done by EAM Jaishankar during a visit to Maldives in January 2023. The Indian High Commissioner pointed out that, "once this project is completed, it will be a shining symbol of India Maldives Development Partnership. It will also be yet another example of the capacity of Indian companies to deliver major projects."

India has been involved in 47 High Impact Community Development Projects in the Maldives, from the procurement of school buses to the development of outdoor gyms to the installation of Street Lights in the country. The biggest project which Delhi is supporting is the Greater Male Connectivity Project, which connects the capital Male to Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi islands through a series of bridges, causeways, and roads. It is funded through a separate USD 400 million LoC and USD 100 million grant from India.

India's reaffirmation comes&nbsp;as a turnaround in ties has been seen, especially with the recent visit of Maldives President Muizzu and Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer to India. Maldives President made a visit to India last month when he attended the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi.

India has reaffirmed its commitment to major infrastructure in the Maldives as ties between the 2 countries see an uptick. Maldives Minister of Construction & Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Maldives Minister of Transport & Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen and Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar made an official visit to Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development Site earlier this week.

India has reaffirmed its commitment to major infrastructure in the Maldives as ties between the 2 countries see an uptick. Maldives Minister of Construction & Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Maldives Minister of Transport & Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen and Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar made an official visit to Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development Site earlier this week. The project, developed with Indian support and assistance, is around 67 per cent complete. Explaining how the project will help the country, Indian High Commissioner Mahawar said, "Hanimaadhoo International Airport project is a major infrastructure project that is being implemented with Indian support and Indian assistance in Maldives. This project will have a transformative impact for the entire northern region of Maldives. It will improve connectivity, it will boost tourism and it will also stimulate other economic activities." Hanimadhoo International Airport, being built under Indian LoC assistance, will have a transformative impact on northern region of Maldives. Appreciate significant progress seen during site visit by @AmbMunu with Ministers of Infrastructure @muththo, & Civil Aviation @ameen3d. https://t.co/lQN4A9s9hO pic.twitter.com/n4nrZtZfDL — India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) July 17, 2024 × The Ceremony of the Hanimaadhoo International Airport Redevelopment Project was done by EAM Jaishankar during a visit to Maldives in January 2023. The Indian High Commissioner pointed out that, "once this project is completed, it will be a shining symbol of India Maldives Development Partnership. It will also be yet another example of the capacity of Indian companies to deliver major projects." India has been involved in 47 High Impact Community Development Projects in the Maldives, from the procurement of school buses to the development of outdoor gyms to the installation of Street Lights in the country. The biggest project which Delhi is supporting is the Greater Male Connectivity Project, which connects the capital Male to Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi islands through a series of bridges, causeways, and roads. It is funded through a separate USD 400 million LoC and USD 100 million grant from India. India's reaffirmation comes as a turnaround in ties has been seen, especially with the recent visit of Maldives President Muizzu and Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer to India. Maldives President made a visit to India last month when he attended the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi.

India reaffirms support for projects in Maldives

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The upgraded ties come amid the ongoing India-Maldives row and as New Delhi and Beijing tussle for influence.

The agreements, including ones on climate, agriculture and infrastructure, were signed during the Maldives' newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu's first state visit to China.&nbsp;

<h2>An old friend</h2>

Speaking at an event at China's Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping referred to Muizzu as "an old friend".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-govt-must-make-stronger-statement-to-repair-ties-with-india-says-maldives-oppo-leader-amid-row-678687">‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader</a>

As per media reports, he told the Maldivian President that "China and the Maldives' relations are facing a historic opportunity to carry forward the past and forge ahead into the future."

Xi, as per reports, "stressed that China respects and supports the Maldives in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions".

Watch |&nbsp;India-Maldives Row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India

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The two leaders, as per AFP, issued a joint communique detailing the "broad consensus" reached by them.

China, according to the statement published on state broadcaster CCTV, has vowed to "continue to provide support within its capacity to the Maldives side in areas of priority concern" including "infrastructure construction, medical care and health care, improvement of people's livelihoods, new energy sources, agriculture, and marine environmental protection".

The Maldivian President thanked Beijing for its "selfless assistance" in providing his country with development funds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-imposes-five-year-anti-dumping-duty-on-chinese-products-report-678861">India imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese products: Report</a>

He also said that Beijing "supports the Maldives firmly in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity".

<h2>Muizzu's anti-India campaign</h2>

President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival India and its influence as a threat to sovereignty.

Since November, the Muizzu government has asked dozens of locally based Indian personnel to leave Maldives.&nbsp;

As per World Bank estimates, Maldives owes China about 43 per cent of its national debt which comes up to $3 billion.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago.

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The upgraded ties come amid the ongoing India-Maldives row and as New Delhi and Beijing tussle for influence. The agreements, including ones on climate, agriculture and infrastructure, were signed during the Maldives' newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu's first state visit to China. An old friend Speaking at an event at China's Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping referred to Muizzu as "an old friend". Also read | ‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader As per media reports, he told the Maldivian President that "China and the Maldives' relations are facing a historic opportunity to carry forward the past and forge ahead into the future." Xi, as per reports, "stressed that China respects and supports the Maldives in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions". Watch | India-Maldives Row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India The two leaders, as per AFP, issued a joint communique detailing the "broad consensus" reached by them. China, according to the statement published on state broadcaster CCTV, has vowed to "continue to provide support within its capacity to the Maldives side in areas of priority concern" including "infrastructure construction, medical care and health care, improvement of people's livelihoods, new energy sources, agriculture, and marine environmental protection". The Maldivian President thanked Beijing for its "selfless assistance" in providing his country with development funds. Also read | India imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese products: Report He also said that Beijing "supports the Maldives firmly in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity". Muizzu's anti-India campaign President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival India and its influence as a threat to sovereignty. Since November, the Muizzu government has asked dozens of locally based Indian personnel to leave Maldives. As per World Bank estimates, Maldives owes China about 43 per cent of its national debt which comes up to $3 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

'Old friends' China and Maldives sign 20 key agreements amid row with India

Maldives Opposition leader and chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party, Fayyaz Ismail, on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that the country’s government should make a stronger statement against disparaging remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indians.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Tougher stand’</h2>

In a recent interview, Maldives’ opposition leader said that the government should take a “tougher stand” against the racist remarks directed towards Indians and PM Modi to repair the strained ties between the two countries.&nbsp;

“I personally believe the government should take a tougher stand on that because this goes beyond government to government. Now, because of the ease of accessibility of social media, this has reached to a lot of Indians and to a lot of Maldivians. And as arguments take over from both side, there has lot of insults coming back and forth,” said Ismail, as quoted by ANI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-raises-concerns-over-derogatory-comments-by-maldives-minister-against-pm-modi-677434">Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi</a>

He noted that the incumbent government needs to make more efforts to show that there was no intention on the part of the government.&nbsp;

“These were just isolated individual opinions of these people who, unfortunately, were given positions in the government. So that needs to be clearly shown to the Indians, to the Maldivians, and to the entire world at large,” said Ismail.&nbsp;

Last week, the Indian PM posted images of himself enjoying&nbsp;on the beach in the country’s union territory of Lakshadweep, which not only garnered some offensive and racist remarks from people on social media but also sparked an unexpected diplomatic row between New Delhi and Male.&nbsp;

Among those who wrote racist remarks against Indians and PM Modi on social media were ministers from the current&nbsp;Maldivian&nbsp;government.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-how-pm-modis-lakshadweep-visit-sparked-diplomatic-tensions-between-india-and-maldives-678432">Explained | Why was Maldives triggered by Indian PM Modi snorkelling in Lakshadweep?</a>

Male has since suspended three deputy ministers over the remarks and distanced itself from the comments saying they do not represent the country’s official position.

<h2>China factor</h2>

During the Wednesday interview, the opposition leader also admitted that his country currently has stronger ties with China. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who came into power after the elections late last year, is&nbsp;in the midst of a visit to Beijing.&nbsp;Amid ‘boycott Maldives’ calls in India he has appealed to China to send more tourists to the island nation.&nbsp;

Speaking about the Maldivian president’s visit, Ismail said, “Well, first of all, there is no doubt that the current government has a more favourable or stronger relation with China. The Maldives has always maintained friendly relations with all countries, except for Israel.”

He added, “So with the change in the political spectrum in Maldives, with the change in political parties, there will always be shifts in the intensity of engagement with different partners, obviously. And in this case, you're seeing more robust engagement with China rather than India.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-maldives-proposes-president-muizzus-visit-to-india-678022">Exclusive: Maldives had proposed President Muizzu's India visit before current crisis erupted</a>

Ismail also spoke about how Maldives had been maintaining an India-first policy but the foreign policy under the new government has shifted.&nbsp;

“Until now, we have always, all parties in the Maldives maintained an India-first policy, and that is also very crucial for our security and stability as well. But this government may have different approaches to its foreign policy, and maintaining good relations with China is not an issue that any party in the Maldives would also want,” said Ismail, as quoted by ANI.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Maldives Opposition leader and chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party, Fayyaz Ismail, on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that the country’s government should make a stronger statement against disparaging remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indians.

Maldives Opposition leader and chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party, Fayyaz Ismail, on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that the country’s government should make a stronger statement against disparaging remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indians. ‘Tougher stand’ In a recent interview, Maldives’ opposition leader said that the government should take a “tougher stand” against the racist remarks directed towards Indians and PM Modi to repair the strained ties between the two countries. “I personally believe the government should take a tougher stand on that because this goes beyond government to government. Now, because of the ease of accessibility of social media, this has reached to a lot of Indians and to a lot of Maldivians. And as arguments take over from both side, there has lot of insults coming back and forth,” said Ismail, as quoted by ANI. ALSO READ | Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi He noted that the incumbent government needs to make more efforts to show that there was no intention on the part of the government. “These were just isolated individual opinions of these people who, unfortunately, were given positions in the government. So that needs to be clearly shown to the Indians, to the Maldivians, and to the entire world at large,” said Ismail. Last week, the Indian PM posted images of himself enjoying on the beach in the country’s union territory of Lakshadweep, which not only garnered some offensive and racist remarks from people on social media but also sparked an unexpected diplomatic row between New Delhi and Male. Among those who wrote racist remarks against Indians and PM Modi on social media were ministers from the current Maldivian government. ALSO READ | Explained | Why was Maldives triggered by Indian PM Modi snorkelling in Lakshadweep? Male has since suspended three deputy ministers over the remarks and distanced itself from the comments saying they do not represent the country’s official position. China factor During the Wednesday interview, the opposition leader also admitted that his country currently has stronger ties with China. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who came into power after the elections late last year, is in the midst of a visit to Beijing. Amid ‘boycott Maldives’ calls in India he has appealed to China to send more tourists to the island nation. Speaking about the Maldivian president’s visit, Ismail said, “Well, first of all, there is no doubt that the current government has a more favourable or stronger relation with China. The Maldives has always maintained friendly relations with all countries, except for Israel.” He added, “So with the change in the political spectrum in Maldives, with the change in political parties, there will always be shifts in the intensity of engagement with different partners, obviously. And in this case, you're seeing more robust engagement with China rather than India.” ALSO READ | Exclusive: Maldives had proposed President Muizzu's India visit before current crisis erupted Ismail also spoke about how Maldives had been maintaining an India-first policy but the foreign policy under the new government has shifted. “Until now, we have always, all parties in the Maldives maintained an India-first policy, and that is also very crucial for our security and stability as well. But this government may have different approaches to its foreign policy, and maintaining good relations with China is not an issue that any party in the Maldives would also want,” said Ismail, as quoted by ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader

Maldives MP Meekail Naseem has proposed Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and suspended ministers Malsha, Maryam Shiuna, Mahzoom Masjid to be summoned by the Maldives Parliament. Speaking to WION's correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "So the foreign minister will be summoned to the Parliament floor, and the rest of them, the deputy ministers who have been involved in making these derogatory remarks, they'll be properly summoned to the parliamentary committee, which is a Committee on Foreign Relations."&nbsp;

The suspended ministers had made derogatory remarks on PM Modi and India. In the aftermath of the incident and uproar, the Maldives government had suspended them and termed the views "personal". 
 
The MP said, "I am appalled but not shocked at what has happened. The current government and its officials constantly spill anti-India sentiments and rhetoric and that's what got them the government." Naseem is from opposition MDP party, which was the previous ruling party.

WION: You have asked the Maldives Parliament to summon the Maldives FM and suspended ministers, how does it happen? 
Meekail Naseem: &nbsp;Yes, it will most definitely happen. So we gave the government I think sufficient time to take action and to issue a formal apology but we did not see that happen. And I think it is now time for the parliament to intervene and question them as to why they have been not taking this issue as seriously as they should be, and what more is being done by the government to resolve the matter and bring a closure to this diplomatic row that is being created by some social media activists as well as senior officials of the current ruling party.

WION: So the summoning, will it happen in the parliament or before a specific panel of the parliament? 
Meekail Naseem: So the foreign minister will be summoned to the Parliament floor, and the rest of them, the deputy ministers who have been involved in making these derogatory remarks, they'll be properly summoned to the parliamentary committee, which is a Committee on Foreign Relations.

WION: So essentially, do you think that the government will give in to the parliamentary demand because primarily so far we have seen only suspension of the minister? We haven't seen any termination. We haven't seen any apology from the government. So do you think that the government will give into it or they will be resistant to this demand? 
Meekail Naseem: Well, I do not know how the government intends to proceed. But I think it is basic decency at this point to just issue a formal apology and distance themselves from what the deputy ministers in the government have said. But I think that is not sufficient to just issue a vague statement as they did, which did not even mention what had happened, to whom it had happened and who did it, that none of this was mentioned. It was a very vague statement issued by the government which was quite frankly, embarrassing to the rest of us and I think it is time that the government was held to account. I think the deputy ministers who have made these careless remarks should be held to account and I don't think that the Maldivian people deserve to have such people representing us in such key positions I think this warrants a sacking and they should be fired immediately, in my view.

WION: So we have also team demands of a no-confidence motion against the president. We have seen MPs pointing this out to that on social media. Do you think that this is something that is feasible and will your party support it? 
Meekail Naseem: Well, recently, we have lost a number of MPs and so our majority has slimmed down, but it's still possible. The numbers will add up with, I think, other opposition parties representing constituencies within the parliament. I think the numbers are sufficient, but whether there is a willingness from either side to push it till the very end. I think that's the real question. Whether there is the political will to do this.

WION: So when it comes to this entire incident, how do you think that this incident has impacted your foreign policy? 
Meekail Naseem: Well, to be frank, I am appalled but not shocked at what has happened. The current government and its officials constantly spill anti-India sentiments and rhetoric and that's what got them the government. So I think in their view, in their personal view, it wasn't very, it wasn't a very odd thing to do, it was what they've been doing for years and years. And I think what we're seeing is just a culmination of the systematic effort to harm India in the perception of Maldivians and to harm the relationship that has been a time tested age-old relationship which we have had, regardless of the political party that was in government, regardless of who was the President. We have held this relationship. We have held an India-first policy but this is the first government that we are seeing that is behaving so recklessly and refusing to even own up to what it has done.

Maldives MP Meekail Naseem has proposed Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and suspended ministers Malsha, Maryam Shiuna, Mahzoom Masjid to be summoned by the Maldives Parliament.

Maldives MP Meekail Naseem has proposed Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and suspended ministers Malsha, Maryam Shiuna, Mahzoom Masjid to be summoned by the Maldives Parliament. Speaking to WION's correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "So the foreign minister will be summoned to the Parliament floor, and the rest of them, the deputy ministers who have been involved in making these derogatory remarks, they'll be properly summoned to the parliamentary committee, which is a Committee on Foreign Relations." The suspended ministers had made derogatory remarks on PM Modi and India. In the aftermath of the incident and uproar, the Maldives government had suspended them and termed the views "personal". The MP said, "I am appalled but not shocked at what has happened. The current government and its officials constantly spill anti-India sentiments and rhetoric and that's what got them the government." Naseem is from opposition MDP party, which was the previous ruling party. WION: You have asked the Maldives Parliament to summon the Maldives FM and suspended ministers, how does it happen? Meekail Naseem: Yes, it will most definitely happen. So we gave the government I think sufficient time to take action and to issue a formal apology but we did not see that happen. And I think it is now time for the parliament to intervene and question them as to why they have been not taking this issue as seriously as they should be, and what more is being done by the government to resolve the matter and bring a closure to this diplomatic row that is being created by some social media activists as well as senior officials of the current ruling party. WION: So the summoning, will it happen in the parliament or before a specific panel of the parliament? Meekail Naseem: So the foreign minister will be summoned to the Parliament floor, and the rest of them, the deputy ministers who have been involved in making these derogatory remarks, they'll be properly summoned to the parliamentary committee, which is a Committee on Foreign Relations. WION: So essentially, do you think that the government will give in to the parliamentary demand because primarily so far we have seen only suspension of the minister? We haven't seen any termination. We haven't seen any apology from the government. So do you think that the government will give into it or they will be resistant to this demand? Meekail Naseem: Well, I do not know how the government intends to proceed. But I think it is basic decency at this point to just issue a formal apology and distance themselves from what the deputy ministers in the government have said. But I think that is not sufficient to just issue a vague statement as they did, which did not even mention what had happened, to whom it had happened and who did it, that none of this was mentioned. It was a very vague statement issued by the government which was quite frankly, embarrassing to the rest of us and I think it is time that the government was held to account. I think the deputy ministers who have made these careless remarks should be held to account and I don't think that the Maldivian people deserve to have such people representing us in such key positions I think this warrants a sacking and they should be fired immediately, in my view. WION: So we have also team demands of a no-confidence motion against the president. We have seen MPs pointing this out to that on social media. Do you think that this is something that is feasible and will your party support it? Meekail Naseem: Well, recently, we have lost a number of MPs and so our majority has slimmed down, but it's still possible. The numbers will add up with, I think, other opposition parties representing constituencies within the parliament. I think the numbers are sufficient, but whether there is a willingness from either side to push it till the very end. I think that's the real question. Whether there is the political will to do this. WION: So when it comes to this entire incident, how do you think that this incident has impacted your foreign policy? Meekail Naseem: Well, to be frank, I am appalled but not shocked at what has happened. The current government and its officials constantly spill anti-India sentiments and rhetoric and that's what got them the government. So I think in their view, in their personal view, it wasn't very, it wasn't a very odd thing to do, it was what they've been doing for years and years. And I think what we're seeing is just a culmination of the systematic effort to harm India in the perception of Maldivians and to harm the relationship that has been a time tested age-old relationship which we have had, regardless of the political party that was in government, regardless of who was the President. We have held this relationship. We have held an India-first policy but this is the first government that we are seeing that is behaving so recklessly and refusing to even own up to what it has done.

Derogatory remarks row: Maldives MP urges parliament summoning for foreign minister and suspended ministers

Former Vice President of the Maldives and former tourism minister Ahmed Adeeb spoke to WION's Sidhant Sibal where he condemned the recent derogatory remarks made against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by sitting ministers Mariyam Shiuna and Hassan Zihan who were later suspended.

Read the full interview here:&nbsp;

 
WION: With me is Ahmed Adeeb. He was the vice president of Maldives and the tourism minister as well, someone who played a key role in terms of making the brand Maldives in terms of tourism. So, welcome to WION. How do you see the developments which we have seen in the last 24 hours? The comments by sitting Maldivian ministers who are now former. And of course, the reaction by the Maldives government.

Ahmed Adeeb: Thank you. It's a very sad incident. I think it's something that should have never happened, and I'm glad that the Maldives government took the initiative to suspend them. This is another episode where we should be always careful not to offend our neighbours and also our friendly relations. And especially their comments on Prime Minister Modi were very racist and also very derogatory. It is not acceptable. And I think there's a very sad reaction from the public of India as well. So because of all that, I would conclude that this is something that should have never happened and also that this is something that should not be repeated.

WION: How do you see the India-Maldives relationship, if you can talk about it, given that you were the vice president of Maldives and have been engaging with the Indian government a lot?

Ahmed Adeeb: Yes. What I see is that Maldives and India, have so much history, and we have been always together. And during our time, it was actually during President Yamin's time, that this second helicopter agreement was signed. So these are things that didn't happen suddenly, but these are diplomatic relations. There were military relations and investment relations. So all these were very good until 2018, when President Yamin decided, when he lost the election, to start an India out campaign, and that party continued it, and which is now inherited by Dr Moise. Still, some elements in the party are against the relationship between Maldives and India, but I would say between the people of Maldives and the people of India, I think the relationship is warm. It's just very few people and also some extreme elements in the party. Other than that, what I see is that people to people, as well as government to government, the Maldives in India, should always have to have a friendly relationship because we are too close and we depend on each other, so we cannot distance ourselves.

WION: Now, talking about the current government, we have seen the Maldives president choosing other countries as his first visit. He, in fact, is visiting China. Now he's left Maldives for China on a state visit. Do you see the government taking a markedly anti-India stance?

Ahmed Adeeb: So it's been, like two months to the government so I'm also an observer, as you are. So what I see that is...what should have happened was the first state visit should be to India, which has been practised by almost all the presidents, including President Yamin himself. So this didn't happen. So what we see is, I would say, there are elements of anti-India in the party itself, and it is yet to be seen what the real government decisions they will take in the next few months, especially this trip as well. So we are yet to see what is the real stand of the government.

WION: So my final question to you is, do you think that the action taken by the government is a case of too little, too late? And if the suspension and the termination should have happened?

Ahmed Adeeb: Yeah, I believe that first it should be taken immediately. It should have never waited until it became a big social media thing against Maldives. So they should have taken action. And as well as this is too little, I've seen, actually, they should have resigned or made them resign or set them, because this is very embarrassing and also very sad for the country because now they are in power, they are the ruling party, so now they cannot be activists. So they have to be more responsible, I would say.

WION: Well, thank you so much, sir, for speaking to WION at such short notice. Thank you so much, sir.

Former Vice President of the Maldives and former tourism minister Ahmed Adeeb spoke to WION's Sidhant Sibal where he condemned the recent derogatory remarks made against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by sitting ministers Mariyam Shiuna and Hassan Zihan who were later suspended.

Former Vice President of the Maldives and former tourism minister Ahmed Adeeb spoke to WION's Sidhant Sibal where he condemned the recent derogatory remarks made against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by sitting ministers Mariyam Shiuna and Hassan Zihan who were later suspended. Read the full interview here: WION: With me is Ahmed Adeeb. He was the vice president of Maldives and the tourism minister as well, someone who played a key role in terms of making the brand Maldives in terms of tourism. So, welcome to WION. How do you see the developments which we have seen in the last 24 hours? The comments by sitting Maldivian ministers who are now former. And of course, the reaction by the Maldives government. Ahmed Adeeb: Thank you. It's a very sad incident. I think it's something that should have never happened, and I'm glad that the Maldives government took the initiative to suspend them. This is another episode where we should be always careful not to offend our neighbours and also our friendly relations. And especially their comments on Prime Minister Modi were very racist and also very derogatory. It is not acceptable. And I think there's a very sad reaction from the public of India as well. So because of all that, I would conclude that this is something that should have never happened and also that this is something that should not be repeated. WION: How do you see the India-Maldives relationship, if you can talk about it, given that you were the vice president of Maldives and have been engaging with the Indian government a lot? Ahmed Adeeb: Yes. What I see is that Maldives and India, have so much history, and we have been always together. And during our time, it was actually during President Yamin's time, that this second helicopter agreement was signed. So these are things that didn't happen suddenly, but these are diplomatic relations. There were military relations and investment relations. So all these were very good until 2018, when President Yamin decided, when he lost the election, to start an India out campaign, and that party continued it, and which is now inherited by Dr Moise. Still, some elements in the party are against the relationship between Maldives and India, but I would say between the people of Maldives and the people of India, I think the relationship is warm. It's just very few people and also some extreme elements in the party. Other than that, what I see is that people to people, as well as government to government, the Maldives in India, should always have to have a friendly relationship because we are too close and we depend on each other, so we cannot distance ourselves. WION: Now, talking about the current government, we have seen the Maldives president choosing other countries as his first visit. He, in fact, is visiting China. Now he's left Maldives for China on a state visit. Do you see the government taking a markedly anti-India stance? Ahmed Adeeb: So it's been, like two months to the government so I'm also an observer, as you are. So what I see that is...what should have happened was the first state visit should be to India, which has been practised by almost all the presidents, including President Yamin himself. So this didn't happen. So what we see is, I would say, there are elements of anti-India in the party itself, and it is yet to be seen what the real government decisions they will take in the next few months, especially this trip as well. So we are yet to see what is the real stand of the government. WION: So my final question to you is, do you think that the action taken by the government is a case of too little, too late? And if the suspension and the termination should have happened? Ahmed Adeeb: Yeah, I believe that first it should be taken immediately. It should have never waited until it became a big social media thing against Maldives. So they should have taken action. And as well as this is too little, I've seen, actually, they should have resigned or made them resign or set them, because this is very embarrassing and also very sad for the country because now they are in power, they are the ruling party, so now they cannot be activists. So they have to be more responsible, I would say. WION: Well, thank you so much, sir, for speaking to WION at such short notice. Thank you so much, sir.

Exclusive: Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ incident

Abdulla Shahid, the Maldives' Foreign Minister, is on a two-day visit to New Delhi. During the visit, he met with his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar and the two nations signed nine agreements on project development under India's grant assistance. The minister's visit is part of a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening the strategic relationship between the two Indian Ocean region neighbours.

During Shahid's high-level visit, WION approached the Maldivian minister&nbsp;and talked to him about the strategic relationship that India and Maldives share.

Talking about the nine agreements signed by the two nations, the minister said that the MoUs are on various projects "ranging from the development of small fish processing plants in islands to street lighting and development of a volleyball court".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-foreign-minister-hopeful-of-india-becoming-a-voice-for-global-south-568109">Maldives' foreign minister hopeful of India becoming a voice for Global South</a>

"There's a whole range of small community high-impact projects," said Shahid, adding that both he and the Indian external minister are satisfied with the ongoing process.

Talking about the defence cooperation between India and Maldives, Shahid said, "We are committed to making sure that we work together with our neighbours in making sure that we keep the Indian Ocean stable and prosperous."

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'Every time there is an emergency and we dial international 911, India is the first to respond, regardless of what government is in Maldives or New Delhi, the response is the same,' says <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abdulla_shahid</a>, foreign minister, Maldives, while speaking to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/SinghBhairavi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SinghBhairavi</a> <a href="https://t.co/iDAc4mC7cp">pic.twitter.com/iDAc4mC7cp</a>
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Answering a question about the upcoming elections in the Maldives and a potential shift in government and how such a change might impact India, Shahid said that they are "confident" of&nbsp;winning a second term.

Talking about the so-called "India out" campaign run by a certain sect of people in his nation, the finance minister said, "I would always regard it as a group of people that has nothing better to sell."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-finance-ministry-employee-leaks-secret-classified-info-to-pakistan-number-held-614573">India: Finance ministry employee leaks secret, classified info to Pakistan number, held</a>

He said that all the people behind this campaign "have done is create hate and they have come out to sell hate to the people".

However, he said that "the people of Maldives will not buy it and that is why we have not seen this take off," because "the relationships between the people of Maldives and the people of India are too solid."

"So these fringe groups, the hate mongers will not succeed."

Acknowledging India's consistent helping hand for his nation, Shahid said, "President Solih (Ibrahim Mohamed Solih) is fully committed in his foreign policy for India first and we are encouraged by Prime Minister Modi's SAGAR policy the neighbourhood first policy, and he has also very clearly said that amongst the neighbourhood Maldives is the first."

Maldives is a key maritime neighbour of India. The nation holds a special place in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'SAGAR' (Security And Growth for All in the Region).

Addressing the future areas of collaboration between the two nations, the Maldivian foreign minister commended India for its contribution to the Maldives' human resource development "over the last several decades" and said that "it is also something that will continue."

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Abdulla Shahid, the Maldives' Foreign Minister, is on a two-day visit to New Delhi. During the visit, he met with his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar and the two nations signed nine agreements on project development under India's grant assistance.

Abdulla Shahid, the Maldives' Foreign Minister, is on a two-day visit to New Delhi. During the visit, he met with his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar and the two nations signed nine agreements on project development under India's grant assistance. The minister's visit is part of a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening the strategic relationship between the two Indian Ocean region neighbours. During Shahid's high-level visit, WION approached the Maldivian minister and talked to him about the strategic relationship that India and Maldives share. Talking about the nine agreements signed by the two nations, the minister said that the MoUs are on various projects "ranging from the development of small fish processing plants in islands to street lighting and development of a volleyball court". Also read | Maldives' foreign minister hopeful of India becoming a voice for Global South "There's a whole range of small community high-impact projects," said Shahid, adding that both he and the Indian external minister are satisfied with the ongoing process. Talking about the defence cooperation between India and Maldives, Shahid said, "We are committed to making sure that we work together with our neighbours in making sure that we keep the Indian Ocean stable and prosperous." 'Every time there is an emergency and we dial international 911, India is the first to respond, regardless of what government is in Maldives or New Delhi, the response is the same,' says @abdulla_shahid, foreign minister, Maldives, while speaking to WION's @SinghBhairavi pic.twitter.com/iDAc4mC7cp — WION (@WIONews) July 12, 2023 × Answering a question about the upcoming elections in the Maldives and a potential shift in government and how such a change might impact India, Shahid said that they are "confident" of winning a second term. Talking about the so-called "India out" campaign run by a certain sect of people in his nation, the finance minister said, "I would always regard it as a group of people that has nothing better to sell." Also read | India: Finance ministry employee leaks secret, classified info to Pakistan number, held He said that all the people behind this campaign "have done is create hate and they have come out to sell hate to the people". However, he said that "the people of Maldives will not buy it and that is why we have not seen this take off," because "the relationships between the people of Maldives and the people of India are too solid." "So these fringe groups, the hate mongers will not succeed." Acknowledging India's consistent helping hand for his nation, Shahid said, "President Solih (Ibrahim Mohamed Solih) is fully committed in his foreign policy for India first and we are encouraged by Prime Minister Modi's SAGAR policy the neighbourhood first policy, and he has also very clearly said that amongst the neighbourhood Maldives is the first." Maldives is a key maritime neighbour of India. The nation holds a special place in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'SAGAR' (Security And Growth for All in the Region). Addressing the future areas of collaboration between the two nations, the Maldivian foreign minister commended India for its contribution to the Maldives' human resource development "over the last several decades" and said that "it is also something that will continue." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive: Maldives' foreign minister says his nation is committed to 'India first'

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Maldives beginning Monday to further bolster defence ties between the two countries. India and the Maldives have maintained close defence relations, with the Indian Navy and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) engaged in areas of maritime information sharing, maritime domain awareness, and capacity-building initiatives.

During his visit, Singh will hold talks with Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi and other high-level officials to discuss bilateral defence cooperation. The two countries are expected to review ongoing defence projects and explore new areas of collaboration.

India and the Maldives signed a pact for the development of a coast guard harbour for maritime security in 2021. The harbour will be developed at the Uthuru Thila Falhu naval base, and the Indian side has already submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) on the development of the harbour. India has also been providing support in the maintenance and repair of the Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Fleet.

In addition, the Indian Navy has been providing aid to the Maldives during the COVID-19 pandemic. The navy has transported food items and medicine to the country to help with relief efforts. Last year, India also handed over a refitted CGS Huravee ship to the Maldives and inaugurated the Phase-I extension of the Composite Training Centre (CTC) of the Maldives National Defence Force. The CGS Huravee was gifted by India to the MNDF in 2006, while the Phase-I extension of CTC was completed through an Indian grant.

The visit by the Indian Defence Minister is expected to further strengthen the defence ties between India and the Maldives and enhance cooperation in the areas of maritime security and regional stability.

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India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Maldives beginning Monday to further bolster defence ties between the two countries. India and the Maldives have maintained close defence relations, with the Indian Navy and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) engaged in areas of maritime information sharing, maritime domain awareness, and capacity-building initiatives.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Maldives beginning Monday to further bolster defence ties between the two countries. India and the Maldives have maintained close defence relations, with the Indian Navy and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) engaged in areas of maritime information sharing, maritime domain awareness, and capacity-building initiatives. During his visit, Singh will hold talks with Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi and other high-level officials to discuss bilateral defence cooperation. The two countries are expected to review ongoing defence projects and explore new areas of collaboration. India and the Maldives signed a pact for the development of a coast guard harbour for maritime security in 2021. The harbour will be developed at the Uthuru Thila Falhu naval base, and the Indian side has already submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) on the development of the harbour. India has also been providing support in the maintenance and repair of the Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Fleet. In addition, the Indian Navy has been providing aid to the Maldives during the COVID-19 pandemic. The navy has transported food items and medicine to the country to help with relief efforts. Last year, India also handed over a refitted CGS Huravee ship to the Maldives and inaugurated the Phase-I extension of the Composite Training Centre (CTC) of the Maldives National Defence Force. The CGS Huravee was gifted by India to the MNDF in 2006, while the Phase-I extension of CTC was completed through an Indian grant. The visit by the Indian Defence Minister is expected to further strengthen the defence ties between India and the Maldives and enhance cooperation in the areas of maritime security and regional stability. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit Maldives to bolster defence ties

India has continued its infrastructure support to the Maldives with a pact on the development of Hanimaadhoo International Airport and the inauguration of a critical care facility and emergency and trauma unit at B. Dharavandhoo Health Centre.&nbsp;

The announcement on key projects comes even as construction has started for the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project in the Indian Ocean island country which is being funded by India with a grant of $100 million and a Line of Credit (LoC) of $400 million.&nbsp;

The contract for the development of Hanimaadhoo International Airport was signed on September 25 and is the first-ever major infrastructure project to be undertaken outside the Greater Male region.&nbsp;

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The project is funded under the $800 million concessional Line of Credit (LoC) extended by the Indian govt while the total value of the contract stands at $136 million.&nbsp;

Thanking the Indian government for the infra projects, Maldives minister of economic development Fayyaz Ismail said, "I would like to thank PM Modi and the people of India for the generous assistance that you have been providing to Maldivian people and this nation."&nbsp;

The pact will see the construction of a new 2.46km runway and a terminal with a capacity of 1.3 million passengers per annum. The airport is seen as Maldives’ gateway to the northern atolls and will give a fillip to tourism, additionally easing pressure on Male international airport.&nbsp;

Indian high commissioner to Maldives Munu Mahawar at the ceremony said that the "project is symbolic of the commitment of the government of India to work together with the government of Maldives supporting its initiatives for regional infrastructure development."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/contrasting-display-of-emotions-indian-officials-divide-netizens-520977">Contrasting display of emotions by Indian officials divides netizens</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Wednesday saw the inauguration of the Emergency &amp; Trauma Unit at B. Dharavandhoo Health Centre with the Indian government contributing around MVR 7.5 million for the project.&nbsp;

Present on the occasion were the Indian high commissioner and Aishah Didi, Maldives ministry of gender, family and social services. The project was announced during former Indian external affairs minister Late Sushma Swaraj's 2019 Maldives visit.

All in all, India is supporting 45 high-impact community development projects in Maldives, support to projects like MIFCO fisheries facilities, a cricket stadium in Hulhumale, Gulhifalhu port, and the construction of 4000 social housing units.&nbsp;

Indian support comes even as China in the past tried to get involved in major infra projects in the country under the previous pro-Beijing Yameen regime. The current speaker of the Parliament and former President of the country Nasheed has several times pointed to Chinese projects in the country as responsible for the debt that the country had to deal with.&nbsp;

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India has continued its infrastructure support to the Maldives with a pact on the development of Hanimaadhoo International Airport and the inauguration of a critical care facility and emergency and trauma unit at B.

India has continued its infrastructure support to the Maldives with a pact on the development of Hanimaadhoo International Airport and the inauguration of a critical care facility and emergency and trauma unit at B. Dharavandhoo Health Centre. The announcement on key projects comes even as construction has started for the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project in the Indian Ocean island country which is being funded by India with a grant of $100 million and a Line of Credit (LoC) of $400 million. The contract for the development of Hanimaadhoo International Airport was signed on September 25 and is the first-ever major infrastructure project to be undertaken outside the Greater Male region. ALSO READ | Indian teen youngest in the world to swim in North Channel between Ireland & Scotland The project is funded under the $800 million concessional Line of Credit (LoC) extended by the Indian govt while the total value of the contract stands at $136 million. Thanking the Indian government for the infra projects, Maldives minister of economic development Fayyaz Ismail said, "I would like to thank PM Modi and the people of India for the generous assistance that you have been providing to Maldivian people and this nation." The pact will see the construction of a new 2.46km runway and a terminal with a capacity of 1.3 million passengers per annum. The airport is seen as Maldives’ gateway to the northern atolls and will give a fillip to tourism, additionally easing pressure on Male international airport. Indian high commissioner to Maldives Munu Mahawar at the ceremony said that the "project is symbolic of the commitment of the government of India to work together with the government of Maldives supporting its initiatives for regional infrastructure development." ALSO READ | Contrasting display of emotions by Indian officials divides netizens Meanwhile, Wednesday saw the inauguration of the Emergency & Trauma Unit at B. Dharavandhoo Health Centre with the Indian government contributing around MVR 7.5 million for the project. Present on the occasion were the Indian high commissioner and Aishah Didi, Maldives ministry of gender, family and social services. The project was announced during former Indian external affairs minister Late Sushma Swaraj's 2019 Maldives visit. All in all, India is supporting 45 high-impact community development projects in Maldives, support to projects like MIFCO fisheries facilities, a cricket stadium in Hulhumale, Gulhifalhu port, and the construction of 4000 social housing units. Indian support comes even as China in the past tried to get involved in major infra projects in the country under the previous pro-Beijing Yameen regime. The current speaker of the Parliament and former President of the country Nasheed has several times pointed to Chinese projects in the country as responsible for the debt that the country had to deal with. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India continues its infra support to Maldives with airport pact, critical care facility

India and Maldives on Monday signed seven&nbsp;pacts for development of new projects in areas like health, sports, heritage conservation and youth centers. The projects were announced during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the country last month. The new projects will be funded under the Indian High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) grant assistance scheme.

The MoUs were signed between Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Indian high commissioner to Maldives Munu Mahawar. The ceremony was attended by respective Members of Parliament, Island Councils, senior officials from the Government of Maldives and the High Commission of India.

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Speaking at the ceremony, Maldives foreign minister expressed his "profound gratitude to the Indian government for the key role India plays in promoting socio-economic development of Maldives", a Maldives government statement said. With these seven&nbsp;projects, total number of India High Impact Community Development Project in the Indian ocean Island country has reached to 27. The estimated cost of the seven&nbsp;projects is around Rs 132 million and they are spread across seven&nbsp;Atolls of the Maldives – Haa Dhaalu, Noonu, Kaafu, Alif Dhaalu, Thaa, Gaafu Alifu and Seenu.

The seven&nbsp;projects are, Audiology Unit in Kulhudhuffushi hospital, Site museums in N. Landhoo Maabudhuge, and in Th. Dhiyamigilli Ganduvaru, Multi-sports complex in N. Manadhoo, Prosthetics &amp; Orthotics facility in Hulhumale’ hospital, Youth centre in A.Dh. Dhigurah, Youth centre in Ga. Gemanafushi and Mental health unit in Addu Equatorial hospital. Indian envoy to Maldives Munu Mahawar in a tweet said, "Development cooperation is the central pillar of India-Maldives partnership and we remain committed to continue strengthening it."

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Development cooperation is the central pillar of India-Maldives partnership and we remain committed to continue strengthening it. <a href="https://t.co/YvUrBx6bx3">https://t.co/YvUrBx6bx3</a>
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Highlighting how these projects are, "designed as per the priorities of island communities", the Indian high commission in a statement said, "most of them are implemented by local councils and enhance their capacities in project execution. India looks forward to the early implementation of all" the projects.

India and Maldives on Monday signed seven pacts for development of new projects in areas like health, sports, heritage conservation and youth centers. The projects were announced during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the country last month.

India and Maldives on Monday signed seven pacts for development of new projects in areas like health, sports, heritage conservation and youth centers. The projects were announced during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the country last month. The new projects will be funded under the Indian High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) grant assistance scheme. The MoUs were signed between Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Indian high commissioner to Maldives Munu Mahawar. The ceremony was attended by respective Members of Parliament, Island Councils, senior officials from the Government of Maldives and the High Commission of India. Speaking at the ceremony, Maldives foreign minister expressed his "profound gratitude to the Indian government for the key role India plays in promoting socio-economic development of Maldives", a Maldives government statement said. With these seven projects, total number of India High Impact Community Development Project in the Indian ocean Island country has reached to 27. The estimated cost of the seven projects is around Rs 132 million and they are spread across seven Atolls of the Maldives – Haa Dhaalu, Noonu, Kaafu, Alif Dhaalu, Thaa, Gaafu Alifu and Seenu. The seven projects are, Audiology Unit in Kulhudhuffushi hospital, Site museums in N. Landhoo Maabudhuge, and in Th. Dhiyamigilli Ganduvaru, Multi-sports complex in N. Manadhoo, Prosthetics & Orthotics facility in Hulhumale’ hospital, Youth centre in A.Dh. Dhigurah, Youth centre in Ga. Gemanafushi and Mental health unit in Addu Equatorial hospital. Indian envoy to Maldives Munu Mahawar in a tweet said, "Development cooperation is the central pillar of India-Maldives partnership and we remain committed to continue strengthening it." Development cooperation is the central pillar of India-Maldives partnership and we remain committed to continue strengthening it. https://t.co/YvUrBx6bx3 — Amb Munu Mahawar (@AmbMunu) April 18, 2022 × Highlighting how these projects are, "designed as per the priorities of island communities", the Indian high commission in a statement said, "most of them are implemented by local councils and enhance their capacities in project execution. India looks forward to the early implementation of all" the projects.

India's development partnership with Maldives continues; 7 pacts signed

India's defence secretary Dr Ajay Kumar was on a two-day&nbsp;visit to the Maldives&nbsp;during which he held discussion with the top leadership of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) as part of the third&nbsp;Defence Cooperation Dialogue(DCD) and called on Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi.

The first DCD was held in July 2016 and the third&nbsp;DCD was held in January 2019. A tweet statement by the Indian mission in Male on the dialogue said, "both sides discussed joint efforts and capacity-building measures to counter trans-national crimes and enhance security in the region."&nbsp;

During the meeting, the Maldives defence minister&nbsp;expressed her deep appreciation for the Coast Guard Dockyard project which is touted as the&nbsp;most comprehensive defence infrastructure development project in&nbsp;the country.

During the 2021 visit of EAM Jaishankar a pact was signed for the development of the Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru - Uthuru Thilafalhu(UTF).

Work on the project will be completed in two phases and is expected to be completed in three years. A Maldives government statement on the meet said that Minister Didi "India for the immense assistance" during the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic with vaccine shipments, medical supplies, transportation of food supplies, humanitarian assistance and "technical support for MNDF, with more than 170 medical evacuations and 130 surveillance missions conducted in the past couple of years."

The Indian defence secretary also called on the minister of state for foreign affairs Ahmed Khaleel and met with Maldives chief of defence force Major General Abulla Shamaal.&nbsp;

During the meeting with MoS Khaleel, the minister "highlighted the continuous contribution by the government of India towards enhancing the capacity and readiness of the Maldives National Defence Force", said a Maldives govt statement.

Both sides agreed to further strengthen strategic cooperation "particularly to ensure peace and security in the Indian Ocean region", the release further explained.

The Maldives has a huge exclusive economic zone in the Indian Ocean, a region that is the centre of global trade. But worries remain especially with piracy, illegal&nbsp;and unregulated fishing and other such worries.

Meanwhile, during the&nbsp;Maldives visit, the defence secretary handed over the refitted CGS Huravee (ship) to the Maldivian side and inaugurated the phase -I extension of the Composite Training Centre (CTC) of the MNDF.

CGS Huravee was gifted by India to the MNDF in 2006 while Phase-I extension of CTC was completed through an Indian grant.

The CTC itself was inaugurated during the state visit of PM Modi in June 2019. Additionally, he handed over 2.8 tons of medical equipment for use by the Senahiya Hospital run by the MNDF in Male.

India's defence secretary Dr Ajay Kumar was on a two-day visit to the Maldives during which he held discussion with the top leadership of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) as part of the third Defence Cooperation Dialogue(DCD) and called on Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi.

India's defence secretary Dr Ajay Kumar was on a two-day visit to the Maldives during which he held discussion with the top leadership of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) as part of the third Defence Cooperation Dialogue(DCD) and called on Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi. The first DCD was held in July 2016 and the third DCD was held in January 2019. A tweet statement by the Indian mission in Male on the dialogue said, "both sides discussed joint efforts and capacity-building measures to counter trans-national crimes and enhance security in the region." During the meeting, the Maldives defence minister expressed her deep appreciation for the Coast Guard Dockyard project which is touted as the most comprehensive defence infrastructure development project in the country. During the 2021 visit of EAM Jaishankar a pact was signed for the development of the Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru - Uthuru Thilafalhu(UTF). Work on the project will be completed in two phases and is expected to be completed in three years. A Maldives government statement on the meet said that Minister Didi "India for the immense assistance" during the COVID-19 pandemic with vaccine shipments, medical supplies, transportation of food supplies, humanitarian assistance and "technical support for MNDF, with more than 170 medical evacuations and 130 surveillance missions conducted in the past couple of years." The Indian defence secretary also called on the minister of state for foreign affairs Ahmed Khaleel and met with Maldives chief of defence force Major General Abulla Shamaal. During the meeting with MoS Khaleel, the minister "highlighted the continuous contribution by the government of India towards enhancing the capacity and readiness of the Maldives National Defence Force", said a Maldives govt statement. Both sides agreed to further strengthen strategic cooperation "particularly to ensure peace and security in the Indian Ocean region", the release further explained. The Maldives has a huge exclusive economic zone in the Indian Ocean, a region that is the centre of global trade. But worries remain especially with piracy, illegal and unregulated fishing and other such worries. Meanwhile, during the Maldives visit, the defence secretary handed over the refitted CGS Huravee (ship) to the Maldivian side and inaugurated the phase -I extension of the Composite Training Centre (CTC) of the MNDF. CGS Huravee was gifted by India to the MNDF in 2006 while Phase-I extension of CTC was completed through an Indian grant. The CTC itself was inaugurated during the state visit of PM Modi in June 2019. Additionally, he handed over 2.8 tons of medical equipment for use by the Senahiya Hospital run by the MNDF in Male.

In Malé, India's defence secretary reaffirms capacity building for Maldives defence force

The government of Maldives has released a statement on Sunday (December 19) over false "misguided and unsubstantiated" information regarding the bilateral ties with India. The government of Maldives said that it is "profoundly concerned" by the attempts to propagate hatred towards India.&nbsp;

Mentioning India as one of the closest bilateral partners, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives called out the involved "political personalities" and other individuals who spread hatred and made false allegations, jeopardising the bilateral ties.&nbsp;

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"While the Government of Maldives champions the freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, the Government strongly believes these fundamental rights should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner," a part of the statement read.&nbsp;

The statement released by the ministry also highlighted a crucial point that spreading hatred and making false allegations regarding bilateral ties with neighbouring countries can tarnish relations with allies. It also affects the safety and security of their citizens in Maldives and Maldivians, who are living abroad.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-maldives-hits-out-at-malicious-india-out-campaign-says-propaganda-by-corrupt-people-432448">Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people'</a>

Maldives government reaffirmed that the country's long-standing ties with all its international partners are based on principles of mutual respect and understanding.&nbsp;

While concluding the statement, the government of Maldives urged all parties, especially the political leadership, to act responsibly. They also asked to refrain from spreading false information that has the potential to undermine the country's cordial relations with its neighbours, and the international community.

The government of Maldives has released a statement on Sunday (December 19) over false "misguided and unsubstantiated" information regarding the bilateral ties with India.

The government of Maldives has released a statement on Sunday (December 19) over false "misguided and unsubstantiated" information regarding the bilateral ties with India. The government of Maldives said that it is "profoundly concerned" by the attempts to propagate hatred towards India. Mentioning India as one of the closest bilateral partners, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives called out the involved "political personalities" and other individuals who spread hatred and made false allegations, jeopardising the bilateral ties. ALSO READ | India an example and role model for religious harmony, says Dalai Lama "While the Government of Maldives champions the freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, the Government strongly believes these fundamental rights should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner," a part of the statement read. The statement released by the ministry also highlighted a crucial point that spreading hatred and making false allegations regarding bilateral ties with neighbouring countries can tarnish relations with allies. It also affects the safety and security of their citizens in Maldives and Maldivians, who are living abroad. ALSO READ | Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people' Maldives government reaffirmed that the country's long-standing ties with all its international partners are based on principles of mutual respect and understanding. While concluding the statement, the government of Maldives urged all parties, especially the political leadership, to act responsibly. They also asked to refrain from spreading false information that has the potential to undermine the country's cordial relations with its neighbours, and the international community.

Government of Maldives clarifies over false information regarding ties with India

Visiting India has been more like visiting a close relative’s home, for Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi, who was recently in the subcontinent for the Official Engagements.

In a first for the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala, she was the first Foreign Defence Minister to review the Passing Out Parade, at the academy that is stepping into its 13th year.&nbsp;

Addressing the media following the passing out parade, she emphasised on the strong India-Maldives ties and recalled her college education in India’s Bengaluru. “During my student days, we used to travel from Bangalore to Trivandrum and then take a flight to Male. We could get our local Maldivian food in Trivandrum and even some signboards would be in our ‘Divehi’ language” she recalled about her time in India, as a student.

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Speaking of India, she said India was Maldives’ biggest development partner after President Ibrahim Solih’s government came to power. “India helped us a lot- 250mn USD budget support during Covid-19, India provided us Covishield vaccines, helped us in our economic recovery(which the world ban terms as remarkable” and our highest tourists arrivals are also from India”.&nbsp;

Queried about the benefits of the Greater Male Connectivity Project, a 7km-long bridge, that is India’s largest infrastructure project in Maldives, she told WION that it helped connect several crowded localities in and around Male.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-maldives-hits-out-at-malicious-india-out-campaign-says-propaganda-by-corrupt-people-432448" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign</a>

She said that such projects were necessary in a congested city. “I would like to thank India for all you do, surely there will be many more projects such as an airport and Police academy” she added, when asked about the plans for further developmental projects.

Lauding India’s vibrant democracy, she said that democracy was hard work and also touched upon how Maldives also sees democracy as the best way forward. “Civil oversight over military is appreciable in India... We need to learn that it is the power of the ballot box, citizen is the ruler of the country... They are the taxpayers” she said in respect to her own nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trained-hard-blended-with-indian-culture-learnt-hindi-foreign-trainees-tell-wion-at-indian-naval-academy-432743" hreflang="en">Foreign trainees at Indian Naval Academy talk to WION about their experience</a>

She also emphasised that President Solih aims to make Maldivian forces fighting-fit and professional, given how their own citizens had been disappointed with the Maldivian Police and the Armed forces.

On Indian defence institutions training personnel from friendly-foreign countries and particularly those from Maldives, she said that lessons and bonds from the academy would lead to a life-long friendship. She also referred to how top officials in the Maldivian forces were alumnus of Indian defence institutions and that Maldivian personnel would continue to train in India in larger numbers.&nbsp;

231 trainees had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries.&nbsp;

As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly-foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie and interoperability, between the forces. In the recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.&nbsp;

Visiting India has been more like visiting a close relative’s home, for Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi, who was recently in the subcontinent for the Official Engagements.

Visiting India has been more like visiting a close relative’s home, for Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi, who was recently in the subcontinent for the Official Engagements. In a first for the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala, she was the first Foreign Defence Minister to review the Passing Out Parade, at the academy that is stepping into its 13th year. Addressing the media following the passing out parade, she emphasised on the strong India-Maldives ties and recalled her college education in India’s Bengaluru. “During my student days, we used to travel from Bangalore to Trivandrum and then take a flight to Male. We could get our local Maldivian food in Trivandrum and even some signboards would be in our ‘Divehi’ language” she recalled about her time in India, as a student. Speaking of India, she said India was Maldives’ biggest development partner after President Ibrahim Solih’s government came to power. “India helped us a lot- 250mn USD budget support during Covid-19, India provided us Covishield vaccines, helped us in our economic recovery(which the world ban terms as remarkable” and our highest tourists arrivals are also from India”. Queried about the benefits of the Greater Male Connectivity Project, a 7km-long bridge, that is India’s largest infrastructure project in Maldives, she told WION that it helped connect several crowded localities in and around Male. Also read | Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign She said that such projects were necessary in a congested city. “I would like to thank India for all you do, surely there will be many more projects such as an airport and Police academy” she added, when asked about the plans for further developmental projects. Lauding India’s vibrant democracy, she said that democracy was hard work and also touched upon how Maldives also sees democracy as the best way forward. “Civil oversight over military is appreciable in India... We need to learn that it is the power of the ballot box, citizen is the ruler of the country... They are the taxpayers” she said in respect to her own nation. Also read | Foreign trainees at Indian Naval Academy talk to WION about their experience She also emphasised that President Solih aims to make Maldivian forces fighting-fit and professional, given how their own citizens had been disappointed with the Maldivian Police and the Armed forces. On Indian defence institutions training personnel from friendly-foreign countries and particularly those from Maldives, she said that lessons and bonds from the academy would lead to a life-long friendship. She also referred to how top officials in the Maldivian forces were alumnus of Indian defence institutions and that Maldivian personnel would continue to train in India in larger numbers. 231 trainees had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries. As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly-foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie and interoperability, between the forces. In the recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.

'Would like to thank India for being our greatest development partner,' Maldivian defence minister tells WION

Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid during his United Nations General Assembly speech on Tuesday thanked India for the $250 million budgetary support to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I thank all our partners who have generously extended financial, material and technical support during this crisis, even when they themselves are going through challenging times," the Maldives foreign minister said.

&nbsp;"One such example is India. The recent budget support of 250 million US dollars, was the single largest financial assistance from a donor during this pandemic," he added.

Earlier this month, India had formally extended the $250 budgetary support or loan at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra.&nbsp;

Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with the COVID-19 economic impact. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, India has reached out to the Maldives in a number of ways including by sending a rapid response team, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May.&nbsp;

Maldives FM highlighted how COVID-19 impacted his country as "a vibrant and thriving nation - our lives, came to a standstill, almost overnight. With no tourists, revenue declined, and debt increased. The economy is set to contract – for the first time in a decade."

The Indian ocean country has constituted a National Taskforce on Response and Recovery and it will focus on post-COVID-19 action plan.

Maldives FM also called for "meaningful action" for the protection of our ocean. He said,"millions of people rely on the ocean and its bounty, for their survival. For Maldivians, as custodians of over 90,000 sqkm of the Indian Ocean, it is part of our identity, our way of life, our economy."

The country has committed to the protection of 20 per cent of its waters and is also committed to working with the Global Ocean Alliance towards achieving the global target of protecting 30% of the ocean in the coming years. Maldives President Ibrahim Solih last year at United Nations General Assembly announced to phase out single-use plastics by 2023.

Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid during his United Nations General Assembly speech on Tuesday thanked India for the $250 million budgetary support to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid during his United Nations General Assembly speech on Tuesday thanked India for the $250 million budgetary support to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. "I thank all our partners who have generously extended financial, material and technical support during this crisis, even when they themselves are going through challenging times," the Maldives foreign minister said. "One such example is India. The recent budget support of 250 million US dollars, was the single largest financial assistance from a donor during this pandemic," he added. Earlier this month, India had formally extended the $250 budgetary support or loan at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra. Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with the COVID-19 economic impact. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, India has reached out to the Maldives in a number of ways including by sending a rapid response team, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May. Maldives FM highlighted how COVID-19 impacted his country as "a vibrant and thriving nation - our lives, came to a standstill, almost overnight. With no tourists, revenue declined, and debt increased. The economy is set to contract – for the first time in a decade." The Indian ocean country has constituted a National Taskforce on Response and Recovery and it will focus on post-COVID-19 action plan. Maldives FM also called for "meaningful action" for the protection of our ocean. He said,"millions of people rely on the ocean and its bounty, for their survival. For Maldivians, as custodians of over 90,000 sqkm of the Indian Ocean, it is part of our identity, our way of life, our economy." The country has committed to the protection of 20 per cent of its waters and is also committed to working with the Global Ocean Alliance towards achieving the global target of protecting 30% of the ocean in the coming years. Maldives President Ibrahim Solih last year at United Nations General Assembly announced to phase out single-use plastics by 2023.

During UNGA speech, Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid thanks India for $250 million support amid COVID-19

India and Maldives will sign a contract on the mega Greater Male Connectivity project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project of the country.

The project is a 6.74 km long bridge and causeway link that will connect national capital Male with islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. It is funded under a grant of $100 million and line of credit of $ 400 million from India.

The signing ceremony will take place at 11 am and will witness the participation of four&nbsp;ministers - Ministers of National Planning &amp; Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail, Finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Transport Minister Aishath Nahula, Maldives foreign secretary, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and senior Management from AFCONS. The contract will be signed between India's AFCONS and the Maldives government.

The project was first discussed during EAM Jaishankar’s September 2019 visit to the country. During the visit, President Solih and foreign minister Abdulla Shahid had requested for such a project, one that will not only be a connectivity link but become the economic lifeline of the country.&nbsp; The project essentially connects four main islands of the country, where almost half of the Maldivian population lives. The project will use solar power for lighting purposes.

Once completed, it will dwarf the 1.4 km long Sinamalé Bridge which connects Male with Hulhule’ and Hulhumalé. The bridge was built with Chinese support was completed in 2018.

India has been involved in other infra projects of the country. This includes expansion of the airport at Hanimadhoo and gan, roads and reclamation in Addu, expansion of fisheries plants, cricket stadium in Hulhumalé, water and sanitation project in 34 islands and road project in the southern city of Addu.

India's&nbsp;line of credit is being used in ten projects which includes a cancer hospital whose survey work is in progress. Earlier this year, an additional amount of $4.5 mn for High Impact community development projects was approved by the Indian government.

&nbsp;

India and Maldives will sign a contract on the mega Greater Male Connectivity project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project of the country. The project is a 6.

India and Maldives will sign a contract on the mega Greater Male Connectivity project (GMCP), the largest infrastructure project of the country. The project is a 6.74 km long bridge and causeway link that will connect national capital Male with islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. It is funded under a grant of $100 million and line of credit of $ 400 million from India. The signing ceremony will take place at 11 am and will witness the participation of four ministers - Ministers of National Planning & Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail, Finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Transport Minister Aishath Nahula, Maldives foreign secretary, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and senior Management from AFCONS. The contract will be signed between India's AFCONS and the Maldives government. The project was first discussed during EAM Jaishankar’s September 2019 visit to the country. During the visit, President Solih and foreign minister Abdulla Shahid had requested for such a project, one that will not only be a connectivity link but become the economic lifeline of the country. The project essentially connects four main islands of the country, where almost half of the Maldivian population lives. The project will use solar power for lighting purposes. Once completed, it will dwarf the 1.4 km long Sinamalé Bridge which connects Male with Hulhule’ and Hulhumalé. The bridge was built with Chinese support was completed in 2018. India has been involved in other infra projects of the country. This includes expansion of the airport at Hanimadhoo and gan, roads and reclamation in Addu, expansion of fisheries plants, cricket stadium in Hulhumalé, water and sanitation project in 34 islands and road project in the southern city of Addu. India's line of credit is being used in ten projects which includes a cancer hospital whose survey work is in progress. Earlier this year, an additional amount of $4.5 mn for High Impact community development projects was approved by the Indian government.

India, Maldives to sign pact on mega Greater Malé Connectivity Project

The first day of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit saw handing over of additional 100,000 doses of COVID&nbsp;vaccines to the country and offering of standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure for the country.

After meeting the Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, at the joint statement, EAM said, "The ‘India First’ foreign policy of President Solih is reciprocated in full measure by Prime Minister Modi's Neighbourhood First’ policy in which Maldives enjoys a central position."

Adding, "the special place we have for each other in our foreign policy at one level, and in our hearts at another, make our bilateral relationship truly a moral for our neighbourly relations."

He pointed out&nbsp;that, "the first and largest recipient of India’s Covid support – be it medicines, food, medical response teams or financial package – was Maldives."

Amid the pandemic, India sent medicines and a rapid response team to the country to deal with the crisis. Last month saw, India gifting vaccines to the country within 96 hours of it launching its vaccination program. Maldives along with Bhutan were the first 2 countries to get India's vaccine gift.

EAM reiterated India's "strong support" for the "candidature of Foreign Minster Abdulla Shahid for President of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly next year."

During the current visit, EAM also spoke at the Ekuveni Stadium in the Maldives. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the stadium which was inaugurated by Maldives President last month.

EAM at the stadium announced that New Delhi has&nbsp;offered a standalone Line of Credit (LOC) of $ 40 million for Sports Infrastructure in the Maldives. The new LOC will be signed after the formalities are complete.

He highlighted India's support to Maldives' sports talent, saying, "As you are all aware, India has also commenced a comprehensive cricket coaching programme for your cricketing talent. I am informed that the coaching programme for coaches and umpires has already taken place and coaching of your 30 member men’s team and 30 member women’s team will commence soon in Chennai."

Elaborating, "It is noteworthy as was mentioned before that the fastest man in South Asia - Hassan Saaid- is also a proud Maldivian, who has received, we are glad to say training in India."

India is building&nbsp;state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé along with a cricket-coaching center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This is the 2nd visit of EAM Jaishankar to the country.&nbsp;His first visit was to attend the 5th Indian Ocean Conference in September 2019.&nbsp;Last year saw, Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla visiting the country, both foreign ministers having a video meeting, and a telephonic conversation between PM Modi and President Solih.

Five pacts were signed between India and Maldives on Saturday, which were:

1. Amendatory Agreement to repurpose an older EXIM Bank of India Line of Credit of USD 25 million for Road Devt

2. Letter of Intent between EXIM Bank and local authorities for financing a housing project of 2000 units in Hulhumale

3. MoU on grant funding USD 0.5 million for a fish processing plant in Kendhikulhudhoo in the northern Maldives

4. MoU on capacity building and exchange of content and expertise between Prasar Bharati and Public State Media, Maldives

5. MoU on sustainable urban development between MoHUA and Ministry of national planning, housing and infrastructure, Maldives

The first day of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit saw handing over of additional 100,000 doses of COVID vaccines to the country and offering of standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure for the country.

The first day of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit saw handing over of additional 100,000 doses of COVID vaccines to the country and offering of standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure for the country. After meeting the Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, at the joint statement, EAM said, "The ‘India First’ foreign policy of President Solih is reciprocated in full measure by Prime Minister Modi's Neighbourhood First’ policy in which Maldives enjoys a central position." Adding, "the special place we have for each other in our foreign policy at one level, and in our hearts at another, make our bilateral relationship truly a moral for our neighbourly relations." He pointed out that, "the first and largest recipient of India’s Covid support – be it medicines, food, medical response teams or financial package – was Maldives." Amid the pandemic, India sent medicines and a rapid response team to the country to deal with the crisis. Last month saw, India gifting vaccines to the country within 96 hours of it launching its vaccination program. Maldives along with Bhutan were the first 2 countries to get India's vaccine gift. EAM reiterated India's "strong support" for the "candidature of Foreign Minster Abdulla Shahid for President of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly next year." During the current visit, EAM also spoke at the Ekuveni Stadium in the Maldives. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the stadium which was inaugurated by Maldives President last month. EAM at the stadium announced that New Delhi has offered a standalone Line of Credit (LOC) of $ 40 million for Sports Infrastructure in the Maldives. The new LOC will be signed after the formalities are complete. He highlighted India's support to Maldives' sports talent, saying, "As you are all aware, India has also commenced a comprehensive cricket coaching programme for your cricketing talent. I am informed that the coaching programme for coaches and umpires has already taken place and coaching of your 30 member men’s team and 30 member women’s team will commence soon in Chennai." Elaborating, "It is noteworthy as was mentioned before that the fastest man in South Asia - Hassan Saaid- is also a proud Maldivian, who has received, we are glad to say training in India." India is building state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé along with a cricket-coaching center. This is the 2nd visit of EAM Jaishankar to the country. His first visit was to attend the 5th Indian Ocean Conference in September 2019. Last year saw, Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla visiting the country, both foreign ministers having a video meeting, and a telephonic conversation between PM Modi and President Solih. Five pacts were signed between India and Maldives on Saturday, which were: 1. Amendatory Agreement to repurpose an older EXIM Bank of India Line of Credit of USD 25 million for Road Devt 2. Letter of Intent between EXIM Bank and local authorities for financing a housing project of 2000 units in Hulhumale 3. MoU on grant funding USD 0.5 million for a fish processing plant in Kendhikulhudhoo in the northern Maldives 4. MoU on capacity building and exchange of content and expertise between Prasar Bharati and Public State Media, Maldives 5. MoU on sustainable urban development between MoHUA and Ministry of national planning, housing and infrastructure, Maldives

EAM's Maldives visit: 100,000 vaccines gifted, $40 m Line of Credit for sports infra offered, 5 pacts signed

India which has consolidated its position as the "pharmacy of the world" amid covid crisis has sent the Maldives 2400 vials of BCG vaccine.

The dispatched supply of vaccines that have been gifted by India reaches the country today, just ahead of the dawn of the new year. New Delhi "urgently dispatched" the vaccine,&nbsp;administered to babies to prevent&nbsp;tuberculosis,&nbsp;to bridge a shortfall in the National Immunization Programme of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In picture: One of the boxes of the&nbsp;BCG vaccines gifted by India to Maldives

The vaccines were&nbsp;procured by India's&nbsp;Ministry of Health and Ministry of External Affairs and coordinated with Maldives High Commission in Delhi,&nbsp; Honorary Consul of the Maldives in Mumbai, and the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the entire process.&nbsp;

A statement by the Indian high commission in the Maldives said, "India’s Neighbourhood First foreign policy has demonstrated time and again, willingness and ability to assist Maldives with speed and scale, in times of need."

Adding, "Under the leadership of PM Modi and President Solih, the India-Maldives bilateral partnership based on mutual respect, trust and understanding has been infused with renewed vigour for the benefit of our peoples. "

Earlier this year in January, India sent&nbsp;30,000 doses of the measles-Rubella vaccine. In 2020, as the covid pandemic wreaked the world, India has reached out the Maldives by sending a medical team and gifting&nbsp;5.5 tonnes of essential medicines. Under the operation Sanjeevani, Indian Air force airlifted&nbsp;6.3 tonnes of essential medicines and consumables from various cities in India in April 2020.

That time, Indian High commissioner to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said the operation is a "growing example of India's neighbourhood first policy and reciprocation of Maldives' India first policy. Friendship in action!"

Another key focus has been capacity building with the training of&nbsp;Maldivian healthcare official. Additionally, under Mission Sagar one of the Indian Navy to reach out to countries with COVID aid, India sent food to 5 Indian ocean countries including the Maldives just before the onset of Ramzan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In fact, India sent 600 tonnes of food items to the Maldives via Indian Naval Ship Kesari. The package includes 200 tonnes of rice, 140 tonnes of wheat flour, 120 tonnes of yellow dal, 80 tonnes of sugar, 26 tonnes of onions and 14 tonnes of Potato.

India which has consolidated its position as the "pharmacy of the world" amid covid crisis has sent the Maldives 2400 vials of BCG vaccine. The dispatched supply of vaccines that have been gifted by India reaches the country today, just ahead of the dawn of the new year.

India which has consolidated its position as the "pharmacy of the world" amid covid crisis has sent the Maldives 2400 vials of BCG vaccine. The dispatched supply of vaccines that have been gifted by India reaches the country today, just ahead of the dawn of the new year. New Delhi "urgently dispatched" the vaccine, administered to babies to prevent tuberculosis, to bridge a shortfall in the National Immunization Programme of the country. In picture: One of the boxes of the BCG vaccines gifted by India to Maldives The vaccines were procured by India's Ministry of Health and Ministry of External Affairs and coordinated with Maldives High Commission in Delhi, Honorary Consul of the Maldives in Mumbai, and the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the entire process. A statement by the Indian high commission in the Maldives said, "India’s Neighbourhood First foreign policy has demonstrated time and again, willingness and ability to assist Maldives with speed and scale, in times of need." Adding, "Under the leadership of PM Modi and President Solih, the India-Maldives bilateral partnership based on mutual respect, trust and understanding has been infused with renewed vigour for the benefit of our peoples. " Earlier this year in January, India sent 30,000 doses of the measles-Rubella vaccine. In 2020, as the covid pandemic wreaked the world, India has reached out the Maldives by sending a medical team and gifting 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines. Under the operation Sanjeevani, Indian Air force airlifted 6.3 tonnes of essential medicines and consumables from various cities in India in April 2020. That time, Indian High commissioner to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said the operation is a "growing example of India's neighbourhood first policy and reciprocation of Maldives' India first policy. Friendship in action!" Another key focus has been capacity building with the training of Maldivian healthcare official. Additionally, under Mission Sagar one of the Indian Navy to reach out to countries with COVID aid, India sent food to 5 Indian ocean countries including the Maldives just before the onset of Ramzan. In fact, India sent 600 tonnes of food items to the Maldives via Indian Naval Ship Kesari. The package includes 200 tonnes of rice, 140 tonnes of wheat flour, 120 tonnes of yellow dal, 80 tonnes of sugar, 26 tonnes of onions and 14 tonnes of Potato.

New Year's gift! India sends BCG vaccines to Maldives

A number of MoUs in the field of sports and on implementation of some high impact community development projects will be signed later today between Maldives and India in its national capital Malé. The signing comes during the visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla to the country.

Earlier today, Maldivian Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed and his Indian counterpart held official discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with&nbsp;particular emphasis "on the recovery and resilience efforts to curb the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, including boosting tourism", Maldives foreign ministry readout said.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, India had sent relief to the Maldives in terms of food, medicine.

The focus was also on "accelerating" the implementation of the ongoing development cooperation projects across the Maldives.

During the visit, FS will also hand over $100 million for the &nbsp;Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India is overall providing funding of $500 million for the project, of which $100 million is a grant and $400 million is a Line of Credit (LOC). The biggest project of the country will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi, and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometers.

During the visit, Foreign Secretary will also call-on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and have talks with ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Finance, Economic Development, Planning, Home Affairs, Tourism, and Youth &amp; Sports. FS will also call-on Speaker Mohamed Nasheed and meet with other political leaders.

Ahead of the visit, the ministry of external affairs in a release said, "The Maldives occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This time-tested and enduring relationship with the Maldives strengthened and deepened even further in recent months."

Indian FS has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, France, Germany, and UK as part of India's diplomatic outreach amidst the COVID pandemic.

A number of MoUs in the field of sports and on implementation of some high impact community development projects will be signed later today between Maldives and India in its national capital Malé.

A number of MoUs in the field of sports and on implementation of some high impact community development projects will be signed later today between Maldives and India in its national capital Malé. The signing comes during the visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla to the country. Earlier today, Maldivian Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed and his Indian counterpart held official discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with particular emphasis "on the recovery and resilience efforts to curb the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, including boosting tourism", Maldives foreign ministry readout said. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, India had sent relief to the Maldives in terms of food, medicine. The focus was also on "accelerating" the implementation of the ongoing development cooperation projects across the Maldives. During the visit, FS will also hand over $100 million for the Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India is overall providing funding of $500 million for the project, of which $100 million is a grant and $400 million is a Line of Credit (LOC). The biggest project of the country will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi, and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometers. During the visit, Foreign Secretary will also call-on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and have talks with ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Finance, Economic Development, Planning, Home Affairs, Tourism, and Youth & Sports. FS will also call-on Speaker Mohamed Nasheed and meet with other political leaders. Ahead of the visit, the ministry of external affairs in a release said, "The Maldives occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This time-tested and enduring relationship with the Maldives strengthened and deepened even further in recent months." Indian FS has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, France, Germany, and UK as part of India's diplomatic outreach amidst the COVID pandemic.

With focus on development projects, India-Maldives to sign MOUs; discuss COVID crisis

A year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised a ferry service between India and Maldives, the service was formally launched on Monday. The service connects Indian ports of Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives.&nbsp;

PM Modi during his visit to the country last year announced in the Maldives Parliament or People's Majlis the ferry service. The visit was his first foreign visit after taking charge as the PM in the second term.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maldives-will-support-each-other-in-fight-against-health-economic-impact-of-covid-19-pm-modi-329129" hreflang="en">'India, Maldives will support each other in fight against impact of COVID-19'</a>

India's minister of state for shipping Mansukh Mandaviya speaking at the virtual event inaugurating the service said, "fulfilled the important commitment of PM to the Maldives last year. The service will increase people to people contact between the two&nbsp;countries and assist in ensuring food security and stable and predictable trade for the people of Maldives". India's envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir was also present in the virtual event.

The Cargo Ferry Vessel MCP Linz operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) will connect the Indian and Maldivian ports. The vessel is expected to arrive in Kulhudhuhfushi on September 26 and Male on September 28.&nbsp;

Aishath Nahula, Maldives Transport minister said the service will "empower northern islands of Maldives. And is a key milestone to decentralize economic activity". Kulhudhuhfushi is a port in the north of Maldives.

The vessel which is used for ferry service can carry 380 TEUs and 3000 MT on bulk cargo and has refrigerated containers. The Cargo service will open the large India market for Tuna exporters of Maldives and will further provide a springboard to Europe through Cochin and Tuticorin ports. Cochin Port has weekly connectivity to Europe through a 6500 TEU vessel.

The decision to commence the Cargo Ferry Service between the two countries was announced during a virtual meeting between EAM Dr.S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid in the month of August. India will subsidise the service at approx $ 3 million. 
&nbsp;

A year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised a ferry service between India and Maldives, the service was formally launched on Monday. The service connects Indian ports of Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives.

A year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised a ferry service between India and Maldives, the service was formally launched on Monday. The service connects Indian ports of Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives. PM Modi during his visit to the country last year announced in the Maldives Parliament or People's Majlis the ferry service. The visit was his first foreign visit after taking charge as the PM in the second term. Also read: 'India, Maldives will support each other in fight against impact of COVID-19' India's minister of state for shipping Mansukh Mandaviya speaking at the virtual event inaugurating the service said, "fulfilled the important commitment of PM to the Maldives last year. The service will increase people to people contact between the two countries and assist in ensuring food security and stable and predictable trade for the people of Maldives". India's envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir was also present in the virtual event. The Cargo Ferry Vessel MCP Linz operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) will connect the Indian and Maldivian ports. The vessel is expected to arrive in Kulhudhuhfushi on September 26 and Male on September 28. Aishath Nahula, Maldives Transport minister said the service will "empower northern islands of Maldives. And is a key milestone to decentralize economic activity". Kulhudhuhfushi is a port in the north of Maldives. The vessel which is used for ferry service can carry 380 TEUs and 3000 MT on bulk cargo and has refrigerated containers. The Cargo service will open the large India market for Tuna exporters of Maldives and will further provide a springboard to Europe through Cochin and Tuticorin ports. Cochin Port has weekly connectivity to Europe through a 6500 TEU vessel. The decision to commence the Cargo Ferry Service between the two countries was announced during a virtual meeting between EAM Dr.S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid in the month of August. India will subsidise the service at approx $ 3 million.

India, Maldives get connected by ferry service; opens vast Indian market for Maldivian exporters

India has announced its support for the largest infrastructure project of Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP).

India will provide funding of $500 million for the project which that will increase connectivity between the country. The $500 financial package consisting of a grant of $ 100 million and a new Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 400 million.&nbsp;

The announcement came after virtual meet between eternal affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar (EAM) and Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.&nbsp;

The project was a key election promise of the ruling MDP Maldivian Democratic Party and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had personally sought India’s assistance for the project.&nbsp;

The project will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometres. Out of the total length, the bridge-section will be 2.08 kms, 780 m causeway section and 3.87 Km embankment and causeway section.&nbsp;

Villingili is near capital Male, Thilafushi is an artificial island created as a municipal landfill and a new industrial zone and Gulhifalhu will be furthered developed into industrial location.

Indian readout of the meet said,"Once completed, this landmark project will streamline connectivity between the 4 islands, thereby boosting economic activity, generating employment and promoting holistic urban development in the Malé region."

As of now 1.39 km Maldives-China Friendship bridge connecting Malé with Hulhule and Hulhumale to its east has been the most visible infra-project of the country but the new mega Indian financed projected will dwarf it once completed.&nbsp;

In Gulhifahu which is part of Greater Malé Connectivity Project, a port is being developed under India's LoC worth $800 million.

Under Indian line of credit several projects are already in construction including water supply and sewerage systems on 34 Island, Hanimadhoo International Airport Redevelopment, construction of international cricket stadium in Hulhumale, ccancer hospital in Hulhumale spaning the country geographical from the northernmost to the southernmost islands of Maldives.

Other than internal connectivity, plans to connect to India-Maldives are also underway. The cargo ferry service between Cochin to Kulhudhufushi-Malé will be operationalised within the next few months. Ministry of external affairs in its release said,"direct cargo ferry service will commence shortly."

Kulhudhuffushi known as "Heart of the North" is the capital of Haa Dhaalu Atoll and near to the Indian state of Kerala. The ferry service was announced last year during PM Modi's visit to the country.&nbsp;

India has also renewed quotas for supply of essential commodities to Maldives for the year 2020-21. The commodities include food items like potatoes, onions, rice, wheat, flour, sugar, dal and eggs as well as river sand and stone aggregates. The quotas assure food security and the supply of essential construction items in the Maldives.

During COVID-19 pandemic, India had made sure supply lines for essential food and construction materials continue to the Maldives. It also gifted 580 tons of essential food items through Mission SAGAR.

India has announced its support for the largest infrastructure project of Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India will provide funding of $500 million for the project which that will increase connectivity between the country.

India has announced its support for the largest infrastructure project of Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India will provide funding of $500 million for the project which that will increase connectivity between the country. The $500 financial package consisting of a grant of $ 100 million and a new Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 400 million. The announcement came after virtual meet between eternal affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar (EAM) and Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid. The project was a key election promise of the ruling MDP Maldivian Democratic Party and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had personally sought India’s assistance for the project. The project will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometres. Out of the total length, the bridge-section will be 2.08 kms, 780 m causeway section and 3.87 Km embankment and causeway section. Villingili is near capital Male, Thilafushi is an artificial island created as a municipal landfill and a new industrial zone and Gulhifalhu will be furthered developed into industrial location. Indian readout of the meet said,"Once completed, this landmark project will streamline connectivity between the 4 islands, thereby boosting economic activity, generating employment and promoting holistic urban development in the Malé region." As of now 1.39 km Maldives-China Friendship bridge connecting Malé with Hulhule and Hulhumale to its east has been the most visible infra-project of the country but the new mega Indian financed projected will dwarf it once completed. In Gulhifahu which is part of Greater Malé Connectivity Project, a port is being developed under India's LoC worth $800 million. Under Indian line of credit several projects are already in construction including water supply and sewerage systems on 34 Island, Hanimadhoo International Airport Redevelopment, construction of international cricket stadium in Hulhumale, ccancer hospital in Hulhumale spaning the country geographical from the northernmost to the southernmost islands of Maldives. Other than internal connectivity, plans to connect to India-Maldives are also underway. The cargo ferry service between Cochin to Kulhudhufushi-Malé will be operationalised within the next few months. Ministry of external affairs in its release said,"direct cargo ferry service will commence shortly." Kulhudhuffushi known as "Heart of the North" is the capital of Haa Dhaalu Atoll and near to the Indian state of Kerala. The ferry service was announced last year during PM Modi's visit to the country. India has also renewed quotas for supply of essential commodities to Maldives for the year 2020-21. The commodities include food items like potatoes, onions, rice, wheat, flour, sugar, dal and eggs as well as river sand and stone aggregates. The quotas assure food security and the supply of essential construction items in the Maldives. During COVID-19 pandemic, India had made sure supply lines for essential food and construction materials continue to the Maldives. It also gifted 580 tons of essential food items through Mission SAGAR.

India to finance biggest infrastructure project for Maldives

India is working fast on regional connectivity projects in SouthAsian countries of Maldives, Bhutan and Bangladesh with the focus of generating employment and faster movement of people and goods.

The Maldives will see the expansion of Hanimaadhoo airport under the Indian line of credit. The line of credit was announced during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's state visit to India in December 2018 which was the first foreign visit of the leader after the election victory that year.&nbsp;

Airports Authority of India (AAI) will do the detailed project report for the project. As soon as connectivity is established, the Indian mission in the Maldives will get a team from AAI to visit the site.

The project will include an extension of the runway from 1200 to 2200 MTS and a new terminal building. The project will be key for the economic development of the northern Maldives with increased connectivity and further boosting tourism.

When it comes to Bhutan, earlier this week a new trade route was opened from West Bengal's Jaigaon to Ahlay, Pasakha in Bhutan.

The new land route for movement of industrial raw materials and goods destined for Pasakha Industrial Estate in Bhutan is expected to not only boost bilateral trade and&nbsp;commerce but also lead to decongestion of vehicular traffic along the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing route.

Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj speaking at the opening of the Land Customs station said, “We are very pleased to provide temporary access through Ahllay for the movement of heavy vehicles and trucks from India into Bhutan."

Meanwhile, on Thursday, minister of state for shipping Mansukh Mandaviya digitally flagged off the first trial container ship from Kolkata to Agartala through Chattogram Port of Bangladesh. The new route will reduce time and logistics cost for cargo movement and connect north-east India to Bangladeshi ports.

Speaking at the virtual flagging ceremony, Mansukh Mandaviya said, "it is a historic move to utilise Bangladeshi ports of Chattogram and Mongla Port for movement of India’s transit cargo" and "will be a new chapter in India-Bangladesh maritime relations".

The consignment of the trial containers includes two TEUs carrying TMT steel bars destined for West Tripura district and two TEUs carrying pulses destined for Karimganj, Assam. The consignment after reaching Chattogram will move to Agartala on Bangladeshi trucks.

During the visit of Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in October 2019, both sides had reached an understanding on Standard Operating Procedures(SOP)&nbsp;for the use of Chattogram and Mongla ports for movement of goods to and from India

India is already working on several other projects in the region. Last year saw Jaffna international airport being opened that connected it to Southern Indian metropolis of Chennai.

 
&nbsp;

India is working fast on regional connectivity projects in SouthAsian countries of Maldives, Bhutan and Bangladesh with the focus of generating employment and faster movement of people and goods.

India is working fast on regional connectivity projects in SouthAsian countries of Maldives, Bhutan and Bangladesh with the focus of generating employment and faster movement of people and goods. The Maldives will see the expansion of Hanimaadhoo airport under the Indian line of credit. The line of credit was announced during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's state visit to India in December 2018 which was the first foreign visit of the leader after the election victory that year. Airports Authority of India (AAI) will do the detailed project report for the project. As soon as connectivity is established, the Indian mission in the Maldives will get a team from AAI to visit the site. The project will include an extension of the runway from 1200 to 2200 MTS and a new terminal building. The project will be key for the economic development of the northern Maldives with increased connectivity and further boosting tourism. When it comes to Bhutan, earlier this week a new trade route was opened from West Bengal's Jaigaon to Ahlay, Pasakha in Bhutan. The new land route for movement of industrial raw materials and goods destined for Pasakha Industrial Estate in Bhutan is expected to not only boost bilateral trade and commerce but also lead to decongestion of vehicular traffic along the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing route. Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj speaking at the opening of the Land Customs station said, “We are very pleased to provide temporary access through Ahllay for the movement of heavy vehicles and trucks from India into Bhutan." Meanwhile, on Thursday, minister of state for shipping Mansukh Mandaviya digitally flagged off the first trial container ship from Kolkata to Agartala through Chattogram Port of Bangladesh. The new route will reduce time and logistics cost for cargo movement and connect north-east India to Bangladeshi ports. Speaking at the virtual flagging ceremony, Mansukh Mandaviya said, "it is a historic move to utilise Bangladeshi ports of Chattogram and Mongla Port for movement of India’s transit cargo" and "will be a new chapter in India-Bangladesh maritime relations". The consignment of the trial containers includes two TEUs carrying TMT steel bars destined for West Tripura district and two TEUs carrying pulses destined for Karimganj, Assam. The consignment after reaching Chattogram will move to Agartala on Bangladeshi trucks. During the visit of Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in October 2019, both sides had reached an understanding on Standard Operating Procedures(SOP) for the use of Chattogram and Mongla ports for movement of goods to and from India India is already working on several other projects in the region. Last year saw Jaffna international airport being opened that connected it to Southern Indian metropolis of Chennai.

India speeds up connectivity projects with Maldives, Bhutan and Bangladesh

Maldives has thwarted Pakistan's attempt to single out India at a virtual meet of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Islamophobia highlighting the country's democratic credentials and multicultural society.

Speaking at the OIC United Nations envoys virtual meet, Maldives Permanent Representative in New York Ambassador Thilmeeza Hussain said, "Targetting a specific country will be like side stepping the real issue. In this light, let me state that singling out India, the largest democracy in the world and a multi-cultural society and home to over 200 million Muslims, alleging Islamophobia would be factually incorrect."

During the meeting Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram had said India is actively promoting Islamophobic.

Thilmeeza explained, "It would be detrimental to the religious harmony in the South Asian region. Islam has existed in India for centuries and it is the second-largest religion in India, with 14.2 per cent&nbsp;of the country's population. Isolated statements by motivated people and disinformation campaigns on social media should not be construed as representative of the feelings of 1.3 billion."

"Maldives cannot support any action within the OIC, that singles-out or targets India,"&nbsp;Thilmeeza added.

In the past few years, ties between India and Maldives have gone from strength to strength. New Delhi has reached out to Male during the current ongoing COVID-19 crisis while the Maldives has reaffirmed "India first" policy many times.

Maldives has thwarted Pakistan's attempt to single out India at a virtual meet of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Islamophobia highlighting the country's democratic credentials and multicultural society.

Maldives has thwarted Pakistan's attempt to single out India at a virtual meet of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Islamophobia highlighting the country's democratic credentials and multicultural society. Speaking at the OIC United Nations envoys virtual meet, Maldives Permanent Representative in New York Ambassador Thilmeeza Hussain said, "Targetting a specific country will be like side stepping the real issue. In this light, let me state that singling out India, the largest democracy in the world and a multi-cultural society and home to over 200 million Muslims, alleging Islamophobia would be factually incorrect." During the meeting Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram had said India is actively promoting Islamophobic. Thilmeeza explained, "It would be detrimental to the religious harmony in the South Asian region. Islam has existed in India for centuries and it is the second-largest religion in India, with 14.2 per cent of the country's population. Isolated statements by motivated people and disinformation campaigns on social media should not be construed as representative of the feelings of 1.3 billion." "Maldives cannot support any action within the OIC, that singles-out or targets India," Thilmeeza added. In the past few years, ties between India and Maldives have gone from strength to strength. New Delhi has reached out to Male during the current ongoing COVID-19 crisis while the Maldives has reaffirmed "India first" policy many times.

Maldives thwarts Pak attempts to single out India on Islamophobia at OIC

Maldives has lauded 580 tonnes of essential food items sent by India onboard INS Kesari to the Indian Ocean country under "Mission Sagar".&nbsp;

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in a tweet said, "India has been a true friend to the Maldives" and "India’s recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times. Our sincere thanks to PM Narendra Modi and the people of India for their friendship and generosity"

Meanwhile, calling it&nbsp;"India’s “Ramazan gift” to the Maldives", Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said, "The aid we received today signifies the strong commitment of the Indian government to provide continued assistance to the government and the people of the Maldives. This demonstrates the kindness and generosity of the people of India towards the people of the Maldives".

The 580 tonnes of essential food items include rice, wheat flour, sugar, yellow dhal, onions and potatoes.

Thanking the Indian Navy, Abdulla said,"I wish to also thank the Indian armed forces, and in particular, the Indian Navy, and the commanding officer and crew of INS Kesari&nbsp;for their support in carrying this aid to the Maldives. "

"May this bridge between our countries, connected by the waters of the Indian Ocean, continue to become stronger and stronger,"&nbsp;Abdulla added.

Present on the occasion were Maldives Defence minister Uzthaza Mariya Didi, India's High Commissioner to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir, Chief Executive of Maldives National Disaster Management Authority Hisaan Hassan &amp; Commanding Officer of Indian Navy Ship Kesari Commander Mukesh Tayal.

India has been reaching out to Male to deal with the COVID crisis. Under the operation, Sanjeevani in April Indian Air Force airlifted 6.2 tonnes of medicines to the country held in various cities in India and before that evacuate nine Maldivians out of Wuhan City, China, which was once the epicentre of the pandemic.

The Maldives is the first destination of India's Mission Sagar under which New Delhi will supply medicines and essential food commodities to 4 Indian ocean countries--Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles.

More Indians to be repatriated from Maldives

Indian Navy ship INS Jalashwa will make another voyage to Kochi on 15th May 2020 from Male port but will only carry Indian nationals from Kerala, Lakshadweep. &nbsp;Air India repatriation flights are being planned from the Maldives to Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Chennai.&nbsp;

Indian mission in the Maldives said,"This is for Indian nationals, except from Kerala who are being brought back by INS Jalashwa"

INS Jalashwa will be bringing back 700 Indian nationals from &nbsp;Malè to Kochi on 15 May 2020 which will be during her second sortie. &nbsp;Jalashwa has already repatriated 698 citizens to India on 10 May during her first sortie. &nbsp;INS Magar, carrying 202 Indian nationals will be reaching &nbsp;Kochi later today.&nbsp;

Maldives has lauded 580 tonnes of essential food items sent by India onboard INS Kesari to the Indian Ocean country under "Mission Sagar". Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in a tweet said, "India has been a true friend to the Maldives" and "India’s recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times.

Maldives has lauded 580 tonnes of essential food items sent by India onboard INS Kesari to the Indian Ocean country under "Mission Sagar". Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in a tweet said, "India has been a true friend to the Maldives" and "India’s recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times. Our sincere thanks to PM Narendra Modi and the people of India for their friendship and generosity" Meanwhile, calling it "India’s “Ramazan gift” to the Maldives", Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said, "The aid we received today signifies the strong commitment of the Indian government to provide continued assistance to the government and the people of the Maldives. This demonstrates the kindness and generosity of the people of India towards the people of the Maldives". The 580 tonnes of essential food items include rice, wheat flour, sugar, yellow dhal, onions and potatoes. Thanking the Indian Navy, Abdulla said,"I wish to also thank the Indian armed forces, and in particular, the Indian Navy, and the commanding officer and crew of INS Kesari for their support in carrying this aid to the Maldives. " "May this bridge between our countries, connected by the waters of the Indian Ocean, continue to become stronger and stronger," Abdulla added. Present on the occasion were Maldives Defence minister Uzthaza Mariya Didi, India's High Commissioner to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir, Chief Executive of Maldives National Disaster Management Authority Hisaan Hassan & Commanding Officer of Indian Navy Ship Kesari Commander Mukesh Tayal. India has been reaching out to Male to deal with the COVID crisis. Under the operation, Sanjeevani in April Indian Air Force airlifted 6.2 tonnes of medicines to the country held in various cities in India and before that evacuate nine Maldivians out of Wuhan City, China, which was once the epicentre of the pandemic. The Maldives is the first destination of India's Mission Sagar under which New Delhi will supply medicines and essential food commodities to 4 Indian ocean countries--Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles. More Indians to be repatriated from Maldives Indian Navy ship INS Jalashwa will make another voyage to Kochi on 15th May 2020 from Male port but will only carry Indian nationals from Kerala, Lakshadweep. Air India repatriation flights are being planned from the Maldives to Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Chennai. Indian mission in the Maldives said,"This is for Indian nationals, except from Kerala who are being brought back by INS Jalashwa" INS Jalashwa will be bringing back 700 Indian nationals from Malè to Kochi on 15 May 2020 which will be during her second sortie. Jalashwa has already repatriated 698 citizens to India on 10 May during her first sortie. INS Magar, carrying 202 Indian nationals will be reaching Kochi later today.

New Delhi's 'Ramazan gift' reaches Maldives; President Solih says India a 'true friend'

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mariya Didi, also lauded the role of New Delhi in evacuating its citizens from Wuhan in the aftermath of coronavirus outbreak in China.

WION: How was your visit to Def Expo in Lucknow and meet with Indian officials?

Mariya Didi: It went very well. The CDS Bipin Rawat whom I met recently when he was army chief, was friendly as well. He made the time to see me. We had a good talk. He was very forthcoming, very friendly, very frank. &nbsp;We had a good discussion. We look forward for many more defence cooperation together.

WION: Any request from the Maldives? <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-warmly-welcome-the-maldives-in-the-commonwealth-pm-modi-278067">India </a>gifted vessel Kaamiyab to your country in December...

Mariya Didi: We are very keen to have another vessel as well. We have a good positive signal from your government. The aftercare of these vessels are also concerns.&nbsp;

WION: India evacuated seven&nbsp;of your citizens from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-chinese-whistleblower-doctor-who-flagged-coronavirus-dies-279173">Wuhan</a> which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in China...

Mariya Didi: We would like to thank the government of India, as soon as we requested, you all brought our people, together with your people. They were also treated well. They all tested negative and very soon the quarantine period will be over and we hope they will be travelling to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-bans-travellers-from-china-over-virus-fears-tourism-minister-278491">Maldives</a> soon. We did have a small child in the camp and I have been briefed that they are taken care off.

WION: How do you see Chinese presence in the region and its influence?

Mariya Didi: I don't think New Delhi has any reason to worry as far as the Chinese and us are concerned.

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces.

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mariya Didi, also lauded the role of New Delhi in evacuating its citizens from Wuhan in the aftermath of coronavirus outbreak in China. WION: How was your visit to Def Expo in Lucknow and meet with Indian officials? Mariya Didi: It went very well. The CDS Bipin Rawat whom I met recently when he was army chief, was friendly as well. He made the time to see me. We had a good talk. He was very forthcoming, very friendly, very frank. We had a good discussion. We look forward for many more defence cooperation together. WION: Any request from the Maldives? India gifted vessel Kaamiyab to your country in December... Mariya Didi: We are very keen to have another vessel as well. We have a good positive signal from your government. The aftercare of these vessels are also concerns. WION: India evacuated seven of your citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in China... Mariya Didi: We would like to thank the government of India, as soon as we requested, you all brought our people, together with your people. They were also treated well. They all tested negative and very soon the quarantine period will be over and we hope they will be travelling to the Maldives soon. We did have a small child in the camp and I have been briefed that they are taken care off. WION: How do you see Chinese presence in the region and its influence? Mariya Didi: I don't think New Delhi has any reason to worry as far as the Chinese and us are concerned.

As defence ties grow, Maldives requests another vessel from India

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-conferred-with-maldives-highest-honour-accorded-to-foreign-dignitaries-order-of-nishanizzuddeen-225498">Narendra Modi </a>said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-ibrahim-solih-hails-india-maldives-relations-225509">country to consolidate people-to-people relations</a>.

Modi gifted a cricket bat to Solih signed by the Indian cricket team after holding bilateral talks.

"Connected by cricket! My friend, President Solih is an ardent cricket fan, so I presented him a cricket bat that has been signed by Team India playing at the CWC2019," Modi said on Twitter.

<img alt="India-Maldives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40ee8b8c-f93f-4e37-8afb-d63457544d22" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190608-WA0052.jpg" />

<img alt="India-Maldives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88dc6df0-789e-4f0a-a6ad-16ba2150fa8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190608-WA0051.jpg" />

India is helping in training Maldivian cricket players and bringing it up to the requisite standard, the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Thursday.

India is also looking into constructing a stadium in the Island nation which is another request made by it, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

He said the ministry is working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to train Maldivian cricketers.

"A team from the BCCI visited the Maldives earlier in May for the training of Maldivian cricketers, organising coaching programmes and supply of kits," he said.

To consolidate people-to-people relations, Modi's latest emphasis is on cricket diplomacy in the island nation, helping the mission of President Solih to develop cricket, official sources said.

In April, Solih attended an Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Bengaluru and subsequently expressed interest to develop a cricket team in the Maldives and sought India's assistance in training this team and bringing it up to the requisite standard.

Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister to strengthen the bilateral ties.

While Modi visited the Maldives in November 2018 to attend President Solih's swearing-in, this visit is the first by an Indian prime minister at a bilateral level in eight years.

The two-day state visit of Prime Minister Modi is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago.

India in March assured the Maldives that it will "positively consider" its request to help build a cricket stadium in the island nation during then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit.

A joint statement at the end of Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March said that the Maldivian side requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium.

"The Indian side agreed to positively consider the request," it said.

Cricket Board of Maldives governs the gentleman's game in the island nation. It became a member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate of the International Cricket Council in 1998.

The Maldives national cricket team represents the country in international cricket. It made its Twenty20 International debut in January this year after the

International Cricket Council decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members.

Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the country to consolidate people-to-people relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the country to consolidate people-to-people relations. Modi gifted a cricket bat to Solih signed by the Indian cricket team after holding bilateral talks. "Connected by cricket! My friend, President Solih is an ardent cricket fan, so I presented him a cricket bat that has been signed by Team India playing at the CWC2019," Modi said on Twitter. India is helping in training Maldivian cricket players and bringing it up to the requisite standard, the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Thursday. India is also looking into constructing a stadium in the Island nation which is another request made by it, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. He said the ministry is working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to train Maldivian cricketers. "A team from the BCCI visited the Maldives earlier in May for the training of Maldivian cricketers, organising coaching programmes and supply of kits," he said. To consolidate people-to-people relations, Modi's latest emphasis is on cricket diplomacy in the island nation, helping the mission of President Solih to develop cricket, official sources said. In April, Solih attended an Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Bengaluru and subsequently expressed interest to develop a cricket team in the Maldives and sought India's assistance in training this team and bringing it up to the requisite standard. Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister to strengthen the bilateral ties. While Modi visited the Maldives in November 2018 to attend President Solih's swearing-in, this visit is the first by an Indian prime minister at a bilateral level in eight years. The two-day state visit of Prime Minister Modi is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago. India in March assured the Maldives that it will "positively consider" its request to help build a cricket stadium in the island nation during then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit. A joint statement at the end of Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March said that the Maldivian side requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium. "The Indian side agreed to positively consider the request," it said. Cricket Board of Maldives governs the gentleman's game in the island nation. It became a member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate of the International Cricket Council in 1998. The Maldives national cricket team represents the country in international cricket. It made its Twenty20 International debut in January this year after the International Cricket Council decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members. Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000.

Focus on cricket diplomacy as PM Modi gifts bat to Maldives President Solih

India and Maldives have finally reset their relationship with the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to the country on March 18. It was the first time since the two sides held the full-fledged bilateral meeting in Malé since the new government came to power in Maldives after the September election. Swaraj and her counterpart Abdulla Shahid took stock of the bilateral engagement covering all areas of common interests and expressed their earnest desire to consolidate and expand ties.

In a normal course, the visit of Swaraj could have been treated as a regular diplomatic affair. But in the light of the tension between Malé and New Delhi when President Abdulla Yameen declared a state of emergency in the country in February 2018, Swaraj’s trip assumes significance. While President Mohammed Waheed Hassan had cancelled the contract signed with GMR, an Indian company in 2012, Yameen showed interest in strengthening ties with China. This can be gauged from the fact that Yameen endorsed China’s Maritime Silk Road. The two countries also signed the Free Trade Agreement in December 2017. A new law was passed by Maldives, allowing absolute foreign ownership of land on the conditions that interested parties would make a minimum investment of $1 billion dollar and reclaim 70 per cent land from the sea, which aimed at benefiting China in expanding its foothold in the Indian Ocean. Around the same time, in August 2018, Yameen also asked India to withdraw its military helicopters and personnel posted in Maldives.

Thus, when a democratically elected government led by President Ibrahim Solih assumed power in September last year, it was a great relief for India. PM Narendra Modi attended the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. In December that year, President Ibrahim Solih paid a state visit to India, with the two sides reiterating their strong commitment to further strengthen and reinvigorate the traditionally strong and friendly relations between India and the Maldives. The visit of Swaraj was the latest development in redefining the engagement between the two sides.

Of course, given then President Yameen’s pro-China policy, it was felt in India that China, with its strategically Pakistan, could use the Maldives as a strategic choke point for India. The threat from Pakistan-backed fundamentalists is no less serious. Wahabi Islam has made rapid inroads into Maldives and the growth of terror modules in that country has raised concerns in the Indian strategic community. It is in this context that Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid reaffirming his government’s “India-First Policy and commitment to working together closely with India” is a big diplomatic relief for India.

Maldives has emerged as one of the most important neighbours of India in geo-strategic and economic terms. It is situated mid-way between Strait of Malacca and Suez, which are the world’s busiest trade routes. At the same time, as Kerala and Lakshadweep are in close proximity to the Maldivian islands, India is cautious about the possible use of Maldives’s territory against it. The two sides have agreed to strengthen cooperation to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region through coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information and capacity building.

But, given the fact that Maldives is a dept-redden country with $3 billion loans to repay, Malé needs major investment boost by India. Mindful of this reality, while PM Modi had announced financial assistance up to $1.4 billion in the form of budgetary support, currency swap and concessional lines of credit to fulfil the socio-economic development programmes of the Maldives, during Swaraj’s visit the Export-Import Bank of India decided to extend $800 million credit to Maldives to finance developmental projects. They have agreed on the need to boost private sector involvement, and the Maldives-India Business Forum will be held in 2019. Memorandum of Understanding regarding Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects through Local Bodies and memorandum of understanding (MOUs) on collaboration in the field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy were signed to strengthen developmental projects in Maldives.

Undoubtedly, there is a marked positive shift in the relationship between India and Maldives in the last four months and it should be hoped that while the roots of democracy will be deepened in Maldives, Malé would not allow any third country to determine the fate of its historically cherished ties with India. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-india-maldives-ties-revived-after-a-spell-of-uncertainty-2733957">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India and Maldives have finally reset their relationship with the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to the country on March 18. It was the first time since the two sides held the full-fledged bilateral meeting in Malé since the new government came to power in Maldives after the September election.

India and Maldives have finally reset their relationship with the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to the country on March 18. It was the first time since the two sides held the full-fledged bilateral meeting in Malé since the new government came to power in Maldives after the September election. Swaraj and her counterpart Abdulla Shahid took stock of the bilateral engagement covering all areas of common interests and expressed their earnest desire to consolidate and expand ties. In a normal course, the visit of Swaraj could have been treated as a regular diplomatic affair. But in the light of the tension between Malé and New Delhi when President Abdulla Yameen declared a state of emergency in the country in February 2018, Swaraj’s trip assumes significance. While President Mohammed Waheed Hassan had cancelled the contract signed with GMR, an Indian company in 2012, Yameen showed interest in strengthening ties with China. This can be gauged from the fact that Yameen endorsed China’s Maritime Silk Road. The two countries also signed the Free Trade Agreement in December 2017. A new law was passed by Maldives, allowing absolute foreign ownership of land on the conditions that interested parties would make a minimum investment of $1 billion dollar and reclaim 70 per cent land from the sea, which aimed at benefiting China in expanding its foothold in the Indian Ocean. Around the same time, in August 2018, Yameen also asked India to withdraw its military helicopters and personnel posted in Maldives. Thus, when a democratically elected government led by President Ibrahim Solih assumed power in September last year, it was a great relief for India. PM Narendra Modi attended the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. In December that year, President Ibrahim Solih paid a state visit to India, with the two sides reiterating their strong commitment to further strengthen and reinvigorate the traditionally strong and friendly relations between India and the Maldives. The visit of Swaraj was the latest development in redefining the engagement between the two sides. Of course, given then President Yameen’s pro-China policy, it was felt in India that China, with its strategically Pakistan, could use the Maldives as a strategic choke point for India. The threat from Pakistan-backed fundamentalists is no less serious. Wahabi Islam has made rapid inroads into Maldives and the growth of terror modules in that country has raised concerns in the Indian strategic community. It is in this context that Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid reaffirming his government’s “India-First Policy and commitment to working together closely with India” is a big diplomatic relief for India. Maldives has emerged as one of the most important neighbours of India in geo-strategic and economic terms. It is situated mid-way between Strait of Malacca and Suez, which are the world’s busiest trade routes. At the same time, as Kerala and Lakshadweep are in close proximity to the Maldivian islands, India is cautious about the possible use of Maldives’s territory against it. The two sides have agreed to strengthen cooperation to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region through coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information and capacity building. But, given the fact that Maldives is a dept-redden country with $3 billion loans to repay, Malé needs major investment boost by India. Mindful of this reality, while PM Modi had announced financial assistance up to $1.4 billion in the form of budgetary support, currency swap and concessional lines of credit to fulfil the socio-economic development programmes of the Maldives, during Swaraj’s visit the Export-Import Bank of India decided to extend $800 million credit to Maldives to finance developmental projects. They have agreed on the need to boost private sector involvement, and the Maldives-India Business Forum will be held in 2019. Memorandum of Understanding regarding Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects through Local Bodies and memorandum of understanding (MOUs) on collaboration in the field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy were signed to strengthen developmental projects in Maldives. Undoubtedly, there is a marked positive shift in the relationship between India and Maldives in the last four months and it should be hoped that while the roots of democracy will be deepened in Maldives, Malé would not allow any third country to determine the fate of its historically cherished ties with India. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India-Maldives ties revived after a spell of uncertainty

In a first full-fledged bilateral engagement with Maldives since the new government assumed office in November 2018, India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will embark on a two-day visit to the Indian Ocean island nation from March 17 to 18.

Swaraj will call on Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Speaker of the Maldives Parliament Qasim Ibrahim, and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid with whom she will hold a Joint Ministerial Meeting&nbsp;during her two-day visit.

She will also meet Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Infrastructure Minister Mohamed Aslam, Health Minister Abdulla Ameen, Environment Minister Dr Hussain Rasheed Hassan among others.

In a release, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity. This visit will further strengthen the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives."

Maldives foreign ministry in a release said, both sides will discuss ongoing and future collaboration arrangements, including the implementation of the agreed outcomes during the state visit by President Solih.

PM Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih and in December President Solih had visited New Delhi.&nbsp;

The visit will give a political signal that India's commitment to Male will continue and New Delhi will do whatever it can to support President Solih and his government.&nbsp;

The Maldives under former president Abdulla Yameen had junked the pro-India "India first" policy for a pro-China policy.

In a first full-fledged bilateral engagement with Maldives since the new government assumed office in November 2018, India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will embark on a two-day visit to the Indian Ocean island nation from March 17 to 18.

In a first full-fledged bilateral engagement with Maldives since the new government assumed office in November 2018, India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will embark on a two-day visit to the Indian Ocean island nation from March 17 to 18. Swaraj will call on Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Speaker of the Maldives Parliament Qasim Ibrahim, and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid with whom she will hold a Joint Ministerial Meeting during her two-day visit. She will also meet Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Infrastructure Minister Mohamed Aslam, Health Minister Abdulla Ameen, Environment Minister Dr Hussain Rasheed Hassan among others. In a release, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity. This visit will further strengthen the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives." Maldives foreign ministry in a release said, both sides will discuss ongoing and future collaboration arrangements, including the implementation of the agreed outcomes during the state visit by President Solih. PM Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih and in December President Solih had visited New Delhi. The visit will give a political signal that India's commitment to Male will continue and New Delhi will do whatever it can to support President Solih and his government. The Maldives under former president Abdulla Yameen had junked the pro-India "India first" policy for a pro-China policy.

Sushma Swaraj to embark on two-day visit to Maldives from tomorrow 

India-Maldives ties: Ibrahim Solih to visit India

In conversation with Abdulla Shahid, Foreign Minister, Maldives

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