Janhvi Kapoor is the latest Bollywood celebrity to have discovered the beauty of Maldives. The young actress is vacationing in the picturesque island country with friends.

Janhvi Kapoor is the latest Bollywood celebrity to have discovered the beauty of Maldives. The young actress is vacationing in the picturesque island country with friends. Her social media posts not only give vacation goals but also raising the temperature in monokini. The `Gunjan Saxena` actor hopped on to Instagram and posted a carousel of pictures that see the star enjoying her time at the exotic location.The first photo sees the actor clad in a shimmery silver monokini as she smilingly looks back at the camera and poses. The other photos are candid captures of the beautiful actor as the sun paints the sky red and a stunning picturesque view of the sky filled with the clouds presents a postcard-like scene. The last picture shows an all smiles Janhvi as she seems to cherish her time amid nature`s bounty. The actor is seen flaunting her perfectly toned figure, and the silver monokini adds a charm to the photos.The actor captioned the post as by writing, "Iridescence" and added a rainbow emoticon alongside. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Janhvi Kapoor (@janhvikapoor) × Celebrity followers including Janhvi`s `Roohi` co-star Varun Sharma and more than 5 lakh fans liked the post. Other images had her enjoying the view with her girl gang and taking selfies in a floral bikini. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Janhvi Kapoor (@janhvikapoor) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Janhvi Kapoor (@janhvikapoor) × Scores of fans chimed into the comment section as they adored the snaps by leaving red heart and heart-shaped eyes emoticons with the post. Janhvi was last seen in `Roohi`, produced by Dinesh Vijan and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. The film marked the first-ever collaboration of Rajkummar and Janhvi. The horror-comedy also became the first film to arrive in theatres after the government allowed cinema halls nationwide to operate at full capacity from February 1 with COVID-19 safety protocols put in place.

Janhvi Kapoor stuns in beach wear, shares stunning glimpses of Maldives' sunset

<p>In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy&nbsp;ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”).</p>

<p>Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)&nbsp;EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from the coast line of any country.</p>

<p>Under the UNCLOS, countries have sovereign rights such as the right to use resources in that area.</p>

<p>A US Navy release said the ship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms...inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law."</p>

<p>The release specifically&nbsp;mentioned that the ship passed 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands and by its freedom of navigation operation, the US upheld the "rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims."</p>

<p>Under Indian domestic laws, prior consent for military exercises or maneuvres in the exclusive economic zone or continental shelf is required, and by current action, the US has violated it.</p>

<p>While the US is not violative of international laws under UNCLOS, which doesn't give full rights over EEZ, interestingly Washington is not a signatory to UNCLOS. It is in fact the only permanent member of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which is a non-party to it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development comes even as US climate envoy John Kerry was in India, with the release of US Navy being issued on 7th April.</p>

<p>No reaction has come from India so far, with WION even reaching out to the Pentagon for a reaction. What is perplexing is that US-India ties have been marked by much warmth, both being part of Quad and backers of Indo-Pacific vision.</p>

<p>In fact, days from now, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the climate virtual summit being hosted by US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A similar statement was issued for Maldives, with the US saying, "USS John Paul Jones asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Republic of the Maldives" by conducting "innocent passage through its territorial sea and normal operations within its exclusive economic zone without requesting prior permission".</p>

<p>The US Navy release claimed, "This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging Maldives’ excessive maritime claims."</p>

<p>The Maldives requires prior permission for foreign warships to enter its territorial sea, and prior permission for all foreign vessels to enter its exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is interesting to know that the US Seventh Fleet based out of Japan was the same fleet whose carrier task force had entered the Bay of Bengal during the Liberation War of Bangladesh of 1971.</p>

<p>The aim was to intimidate India and support Pakistan but could not achieve much as the USSR had dispatched its 10th Operative Battle Group of its Pacific Fleet. The fleet had to abort its mission.</p>


In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”).

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”). Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from the coast line of any country. Under the UNCLOS, countries have sovereign rights such as the right to use resources in that area. A US Navy release said the ship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms...inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law." The release specifically mentioned that the ship passed 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands and by its freedom of navigation operation, the US upheld the "rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims." Under Indian domestic laws, prior consent for military exercises or maneuvres in the exclusive economic zone or continental shelf is required, and by current action, the US has violated it. While the US is not violative of international laws under UNCLOS, which doesn't give full rights over EEZ, interestingly Washington is not a signatory to UNCLOS. It is in fact the only permanent member of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which is a non-party to it. The development comes even as US climate envoy John Kerry was in India, with the release of US Navy being issued on 7th April. No reaction has come from India so far, with WION even reaching out to the Pentagon for a reaction. What is perplexing is that US-India ties have been marked by much warmth, both being part of Quad and backers of Indo-Pacific vision. In fact, days from now, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the climate virtual summit being hosted by US President Joe Biden. A similar statement was issued for Maldives, with the US saying, "USS John Paul Jones asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Republic of the Maldives" by conducting "innocent passage through its territorial sea and normal operations within its exclusive economic zone without requesting prior permission". The US Navy release claimed, "This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging Maldives’ excessive maritime claims." The Maldives requires prior permission for foreign warships to enter its territorial sea, and prior permission for all foreign vessels to enter its exclusive economic zone. It is interesting to know that the US Seventh Fleet based out of Japan was the same fleet whose carrier task force had entered the Bay of Bengal during the Liberation War of Bangladesh of 1971. The aim was to intimidate India and support Pakistan but could not achieve much as the USSR had dispatched its 10th Operative Battle Group of its Pacific Fleet. The fleet had to abort its mission.

US Navy violates exclusive economic zones of India, Maldives

<p>The ruling could not have been more clear.</p>

<p>One of soccer’s six regional bodies had engaged in discriminatory behavior against a female official by hindering her chances of getting a seat on its board and a leadership position with the sport’s global governing body, FIFA.</p>

<p>The official, Mariyam Mohamed, also convinced judges at sports’ top court that an influential Kuwaiti sheikh had actively interfered in elections held by the Asian Football Confederation in 2019 to achieve his desired outcome.</p>

<p>The full ruling, which has not been published, was obtained by The New York Times. In it, a panel at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland concluded that the inaction by Asian soccer officials over several months amounted to a “denial of justice” for Mohamed. Yet two months since the decision was announced, the effect of what appears to be a powerful denunciation of ethics breaches and a disregard for women’s rights has had all the effect of a snowball hitting a tank.</p>

<p>Nothing has happened.</p>

<p>The tainted elections will not be rerun. The men who offered Mohamed inducements to drop out have not been punished. And soccer’s leaders have taken no action.</p>

<p>FIFA said in an email it had no comment, even though it previously insisted it would follow up on the court’s findings with soccer officials in Asia. Asian soccer’s governing body also declined to comment, saying its leaders had nothing to add to a January statement in which they had pledged the organization would review the findings.</p>

<p>For Mohamed, the silence has been maddening.</p>

<p>“It’s just a game for them, justice denial, the same process that I was in,” she said in a phone interview. “They’re waiting for time to pass by, and hoping I get fed up. Now the verdict has come, and it’s just very sad. I don’t know where else to go now.”</p>

<p>Mohamed, who filed her complaints to the Asian federation’s disciplinary department in May 2019, says she initially celebrated the ruling, but came to realize it may amount to a Pyrrhic victory.</p>

<p>She has not been contacted by officials from the AFC, she said. Nor has she heard from ethics investigators from FIFA, even though the organization’s rules state that gender discrimination is “strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion.”</p>

<p>The case and its aftermath have highlighted how power works in global sports. It shows how a tainted Gulf royal linked to other cases of corruption has been able to exert significant control over one of soccer’s largest governing bodies even though he has no official role in its affairs. And it shows how a strategy of delay can be its own kind of injustice.</p>

<p>Mohamed’s case had roots in FIFA’s response to its own problems with discrimination: To address a lack of women on its governing board, the organization since 2013 set aside specific seats for women, starting with one voting member in 2013 and now a minimum of one from each of FIFA’s six regional confederations.</p>

<p>Mohamed, a former soccer player and coach from the Maldives, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, had hoped to win the AFC’s spot in a vote in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in April 2019. It did not take her long to realize that the power brokers of Asian soccer had already decided the election’s outcome.</p>

<p>She filed her first complaints about the election to the Asian confederation’s disciplinary department a month later. Emails show the organization responded to her inquiries by insisting it had begun an investigation, although it appears little was done. The AFC, citing confidentiality, refused to supply any evidence of its investigation to the court.</p>

<p>At a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport last July, the AFC hardly put up a defense. Its lawyers offered no witnesses to challenge Mohamed’s testimony that a top confederation official and the head of the soccer federation of Qatar had been present in a luxury hotel suite when the Kuwaiti sheikh, Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah, told Mohamed he had decided that his preferred candidate, Mahfuza Akhter Kiron of Bangladesh, would be elected as the AFC’s female representative to the FIFA Council.</p>

<p>Mohamed was told she should drop her candidacy, and do so within 24 hours. She later claimed, in testimony that went unchallenged by the AFC, that Sheikh Ahmad attempted to mollify her by saying he had so much sway in international soccer circles that he could obtain for her “any other position of her choosing at the AFC or FIFA” in exchange for her withdrawal.</p>

<p>By this point, Sheikh Ahmad had no official role in soccer, having resigned his position on the FIFA Council in 2017 after allegations emerged in a U.S. federal court that he had bribed Asian officials. But Mohamed’s decision to take her case to court provided a rare public glimpse into his continuing stature as a power broker in global sports through his role as the president of the Olympic Council of Asia, an organization created by his father in 1982.</p>

<p>At a 2013 International Olympic Committee meeting, for example, Sheikh Ahmad’s support helped Thomas Bach secure the IOC presidency and also deliver the 2020 Olympics to Tokyo. Since he was indicted in a forgery case unrelated to sports in 2018, he has “self-suspended” from two prominent Olympic roles. But his opinion still carries weight.</p>

<p>Before the AFC’s 2019 elections, his legal troubles did not seem to be an issue. A list of his favored candidates was distributed to AFC voters on the eve of the elections and, aware of the talks with Mohamed and of Sheikh Ahmad’s preference for a different candidate, the leaders of several federations pressured Mohamed to drop out, she said. She declined to withdraw, and lost the vote, 31-15. Every candidate on Sheikh Ahmad’s list, however, was elected to seats on the AFC’s executive board or, as in Kiron’s case, as a confederation representative to FIFA.</p>

<p>After reviewing the evidence presented by Mohamed and her lawyers, the CAS panel made clear in the summary of its decision that it agreed with her version of the events. The panel confirmed that the 2019 elections had breached FIFA and AFC rules on gender discrimination. It concluded that Sheikh Ahmad had tried to influence the outcome, and that the AFC had denied Mohamed justice by not making a ruling on her complaint. It did, however, also say that by not bowing out of the elections, Mohamed ensured the sheikh’s efforts to influence the election in her case were not effective.</p>

<p>But the court said it was powerless to order that the flawed elections be annulled, or to punish any of the individuals accused of interfering with them. Any decision on further action was for FIFA, and the AFC, to decide, the court said.</p>

<p>Because of the rules governing the court, the panel’s full findings have been cloaked in secrecy since the verdict was announced on Jan. 25.</p>

<p>“If nothing happens it is a disgrace for FIFA, the AFC, and undermines the authority of CAS indirectly,” said Miguel Maduro, the former FIFA governance head who gave evidence in Mohamed’s case. “This award and what follows tells us at once that CAS has exposed corruption at the highest level of elections in football and at the same time tells us they cannot do anything about it.”</p>

<p>Maduro added that at the very least, FIFA should have initiated an ethics inquiry after the ruling. To date, it has not.</p>

<p>Such a move, though, would be extremely sensitive for soccer’s global leadership. The FIFA official responsible for overseeing the 2019 election, Eduardo Ache, told the CAS panel that soccer’s guidelines to improve female representation were mere recommendations. The panel said Ache’s evidence suggested he was “prepared to accept any discrimination provided at least one woman was elected to FIFA.”</p>

<p>But pressing for discipline in the case also could be uncomfortable for FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, who relies on the support of national and regional soccer leaders to push his agenda. He recently spent two weeks touring Africa, for example, to ensure that his favored candidate, a South African billionaire with no high-level experience in soccer administration, was elected president of the continent’s regional confederation. And he is unlikely to press for discipline against the leader of Qatar’s soccer federation — reportedly present when Mohamed was offered inducements to step aside — or any other Asian leader a year before Qatar hosts the 2022 World Cup.</p>

<p>The longer the full ruling in Mohamed’s case goes unpublished, though, the more it will give the appearance soccer’s leaders are trying to brush a problematic situation under the carpet, said Johan Lindholm, a professor of law at Umea University in Sweden who has published a book on CAS.</p>

<p>“Whether it’s because of bad PR or there are other things going on, then you would probably want to keep it as secret as possible,” Lindholm said.</p>


The ruling could not have been more clear. One of soccer’s six regional bodies had engaged in discriminatory behavior against a female official by hindering her chances of getting a seat on its board and a leadership position with the sport’s global governing body, FIFA.

The ruling could not have been more clear. One of soccer’s six regional bodies had engaged in discriminatory behavior against a female official by hindering her chances of getting a seat on its board and a leadership position with the sport’s global governing body, FIFA. The official, Mariyam Mohamed, also convinced judges at sports’ top court that an influential Kuwaiti sheikh had actively interfered in elections held by the Asian Football Confederation in 2019 to achieve his desired outcome. The full ruling, which has not been published, was obtained by The New York Times. In it, a panel at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland concluded that the inaction by Asian soccer officials over several months amounted to a “denial of justice” for Mohamed. Yet two months since the decision was announced, the effect of what appears to be a powerful denunciation of ethics breaches and a disregard for women’s rights has had all the effect of a snowball hitting a tank. Nothing has happened. The tainted elections will not be rerun. The men who offered Mohamed inducements to drop out have not been punished. And soccer’s leaders have taken no action. FIFA said in an email it had no comment, even though it previously insisted it would follow up on the court’s findings with soccer officials in Asia. Asian soccer’s governing body also declined to comment, saying its leaders had nothing to add to a January statement in which they had pledged the organization would review the findings. For Mohamed, the silence has been maddening. “It’s just a game for them, justice denial, the same process that I was in,” she said in a phone interview. “They’re waiting for time to pass by, and hoping I get fed up. Now the verdict has come, and it’s just very sad. I don’t know where else to go now.” Mohamed, who filed her complaints to the Asian federation’s disciplinary department in May 2019, says she initially celebrated the ruling, but came to realize it may amount to a Pyrrhic victory. She has not been contacted by officials from the AFC, she said. Nor has she heard from ethics investigators from FIFA, even though the organization’s rules state that gender discrimination is “strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion.” The case and its aftermath have highlighted how power works in global sports. It shows how a tainted Gulf royal linked to other cases of corruption has been able to exert significant control over one of soccer’s largest governing bodies even though he has no official role in its affairs. And it shows how a strategy of delay can be its own kind of injustice. Mohamed’s case had roots in FIFA’s response to its own problems with discrimination: To address a lack of women on its governing board, the organization since 2013 set aside specific seats for women, starting with one voting member in 2013 and now a minimum of one from each of FIFA’s six regional confederations. Mohamed, a former soccer player and coach from the Maldives, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, had hoped to win the AFC’s spot in a vote in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in April 2019. It did not take her long to realize that the power brokers of Asian soccer had already decided the election’s outcome. She filed her first complaints about the election to the Asian confederation’s disciplinary department a month later. Emails show the organization responded to her inquiries by insisting it had begun an investigation, although it appears little was done. The AFC, citing confidentiality, refused to supply any evidence of its investigation to the court. At a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport last July, the AFC hardly put up a defense. Its lawyers offered no witnesses to challenge Mohamed’s testimony that a top confederation official and the head of the soccer federation of Qatar had been present in a luxury hotel suite when the Kuwaiti sheikh, Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah, told Mohamed he had decided that his preferred candidate, Mahfuza Akhter Kiron of Bangladesh, would be elected as the AFC’s female representative to the FIFA Council. Mohamed was told she should drop her candidacy, and do so within 24 hours. She later claimed, in testimony that went unchallenged by the AFC, that Sheikh Ahmad attempted to mollify her by saying he had so much sway in international soccer circles that he could obtain for her “any other position of her choosing at the AFC or FIFA” in exchange for her withdrawal. By this point, Sheikh Ahmad had no official role in soccer, having resigned his position on the FIFA Council in 2017 after allegations emerged in a U.S. federal court that he had bribed Asian officials. But Mohamed’s decision to take her case to court provided a rare public glimpse into his continuing stature as a power broker in global sports through his role as the president of the Olympic Council of Asia, an organization created by his father in 1982. At a 2013 International Olympic Committee meeting, for example, Sheikh Ahmad’s support helped Thomas Bach secure the IOC presidency and also deliver the 2020 Olympics to Tokyo. Since he was indicted in a forgery case unrelated to sports in 2018, he has “self-suspended” from two prominent Olympic roles. But his opinion still carries weight. Before the AFC’s 2019 elections, his legal troubles did not seem to be an issue. A list of his favored candidates was distributed to AFC voters on the eve of the elections and, aware of the talks with Mohamed and of Sheikh Ahmad’s preference for a different candidate, the leaders of several federations pressured Mohamed to drop out, she said. She declined to withdraw, and lost the vote, 31-15. Every candidate on Sheikh Ahmad’s list, however, was elected to seats on the AFC’s executive board or, as in Kiron’s case, as a confederation representative to FIFA. After reviewing the evidence presented by Mohamed and her lawyers, the CAS panel made clear in the summary of its decision that it agreed with her version of the events. The panel confirmed that the 2019 elections had breached FIFA and AFC rules on gender discrimination. It concluded that Sheikh Ahmad had tried to influence the outcome, and that the AFC had denied Mohamed justice by not making a ruling on her complaint. It did, however, also say that by not bowing out of the elections, Mohamed ensured the sheikh’s efforts to influence the election in her case were not effective. But the court said it was powerless to order that the flawed elections be annulled, or to punish any of the individuals accused of interfering with them. Any decision on further action was for FIFA, and the AFC, to decide, the court said. Because of the rules governing the court, the panel’s full findings have been cloaked in secrecy since the verdict was announced on Jan. 25. “If nothing happens it is a disgrace for FIFA, the AFC, and undermines the authority of CAS indirectly,” said Miguel Maduro, the former FIFA governance head who gave evidence in Mohamed’s case. “This award and what follows tells us at once that CAS has exposed corruption at the highest level of elections in football and at the same time tells us they cannot do anything about it.” Maduro added that at the very least, FIFA should have initiated an ethics inquiry after the ruling. To date, it has not. Such a move, though, would be extremely sensitive for soccer’s global leadership. The FIFA official responsible for overseeing the 2019 election, Eduardo Ache, told the CAS panel that soccer’s guidelines to improve female representation were mere recommendations. The panel said Ache’s evidence suggested he was “prepared to accept any discrimination provided at least one woman was elected to FIFA.” But pressing for discipline in the case also could be uncomfortable for FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, who relies on the support of national and regional soccer leaders to push his agenda. He recently spent two weeks touring Africa, for example, to ensure that his favored candidate, a South African billionaire with no high-level experience in soccer administration, was elected president of the continent’s regional confederation. And he is unlikely to press for discipline against the leader of Qatar’s soccer federation — reportedly present when Mohamed was offered inducements to step aside — or any other Asian leader a year before Qatar hosts the 2022 World Cup. The longer the full ruling in Mohamed’s case goes unpublished, though, the more it will give the appearance soccer’s leaders are trying to brush a problematic situation under the carpet, said Johan Lindholm, a professor of law at Umea University in Sweden who has published a book on CAS. “Whether it’s because of bad PR or there are other things going on, then you would probably want to keep it as secret as possible,” Lindholm said.

A soccer official proved her discrimination case. No one was punished.

<p>Maldives&nbsp;Foreign Secretary&nbsp;Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said on Wednesday that when lockdowns were&nbsp;imposed all across the globe, his country had to close its&nbsp;borders and had no visitors.</p>

<p>Speaking at the&nbsp;WION Global summit in Dubai on Wednesday, he said that Maldives, being a ''tourism-dependent country, became a no-income country overnight," as a result of the global lockdowns.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"We are mainly a tourism-dependent country. We had to close our borders and had no visitors. Our only source of income was curtailed, so we became a no-income country overnight," says <a href="https://twitter.com/aghafoormohamed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aghafoormohamed</a>, Foreign Secretary, Maldives<br />
<br />
Follow LIVE updates: <a href="https://t.co/s2VXujmIBS">https://t.co/s2VXujmIBS</a> <a href="https://t.co/FHZ37WxRzZ">pic.twitter.com/FHZ37WxRzZ</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1374663955268861952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists on&nbsp;July 15 and lifted&nbsp;quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering&nbsp;Male, thereby providing a safe corridor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning as did guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers.</p>

<p>Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said that Maldives was able to survive the pandemic due to its ''friendships, and partnerships with the rest of the world.''</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-global-summit-live-digital-revolution-the-world-goes-online-372686" hreflang="en">WION Global Summit LIVE: Digital Revolution — The world goes online</a></p>

<p>Expressing hope for the recovery of Maldives,&nbsp;Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said that the country had&nbsp;500,000 tourist arrivals this year to date which is quite encouraging.''</p>

<p>Amid the pandemic last year, New Delhi reached out to Male with supplies of medicines, food and sent a 14- member rapid response team consisting of doctors and paramedics. In April 2020, India launched operation Sanjeevani with an Indian Air Force plane airlifting 6.2 tonnes of essential medical supplies to the country. Under Mission Sagar of the Indian Navy, India reached out to five Indian ocean countries including the Maldives. Indian Navy Ship Kesari delivered 600 tonnes of food items to the Indian Ocean island country.</p>

<p>The pandemic had a major impact on the country's tourism-driven economy. In September 2020, India extended urgent financial assistance of US$ 250 million to the Maldives through investment by SBI in the Government of Maldives bonds. That was the first assistance package of such a magnitude announced by the Indian government&nbsp;to any country to deal with the COVID pandemic.</p>

<p>India had sent 100,000 doses of the Covishield vaccine, manufactured by the&nbsp;Serum Institute of India to the Maldives as a gift.</p>

<p>The Maldives, with a population of 500,000, will be benefitting&nbsp;from the supplies from India. The government of Maldives has proposed to purchase 300,000 doses of vaccine from the Serum Institute of India. The vaccine given by India will be used to inoculate frontline healthcare workers, the elderly, and those with co-morbidities.</p>


Maldives Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said on Wednesday that when lockdowns were imposed all across the globe, his country had to close its borders and had no visitors.

Maldives Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said on Wednesday that when lockdowns were imposed all across the globe, his country had to close its borders and had no visitors. Speaking at the WION Global summit in Dubai on Wednesday, he said that Maldives, being a ''tourism-dependent country, became a no-income country overnight," as a result of the global lockdowns. "We are mainly a tourism-dependent country. We had to close our borders and had no visitors. Our only source of income was curtailed, so we became a no-income country overnight," says @aghafoormohamed, Foreign Secretary, Maldives Follow LIVE updates: https://t.co/s2VXujmIBS pic.twitter.com/FHZ37WxRzZ — WION (@WIONews) March 24, 2021 × The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists on July 15 and lifted quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor. Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning as did guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers. Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said that Maldives was able to survive the pandemic due to its ''friendships, and partnerships with the rest of the world.'' WION Global Summit LIVE: Digital Revolution — The world goes online Expressing hope for the recovery of Maldives, Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed said that the country had 500,000 tourist arrivals this year to date which is quite encouraging.'' Amid the pandemic last year, New Delhi reached out to Male with supplies of medicines, food and sent a 14- member rapid response team consisting of doctors and paramedics. In April 2020, India launched operation Sanjeevani with an Indian Air Force plane airlifting 6.2 tonnes of essential medical supplies to the country. Under Mission Sagar of the Indian Navy, India reached out to five Indian ocean countries including the Maldives. Indian Navy Ship Kesari delivered 600 tonnes of food items to the Indian Ocean island country. The pandemic had a major impact on the country's tourism-driven economy. In September 2020, India extended urgent financial assistance of US$ 250 million to the Maldives through investment by SBI in the Government of Maldives bonds. That was the first assistance package of such a magnitude announced by the Indian government to any country to deal with the COVID pandemic. India had sent 100,000 doses of the Covishield vaccine, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India to the Maldives as a gift. The Maldives, with a population of 500,000, will be benefitting from the supplies from India. The government of Maldives has proposed to purchase 300,000 doses of vaccine from the Serum Institute of India. The vaccine given by India will be used to inoculate frontline healthcare workers, the elderly, and those with co-morbidities.

Maldives became no-income country overnight, says Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed

In pics: Shraddha Kapoor's Maldives pics will make you crave for a holiday

<p>Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof has said that India and Maldives are 'writing history in the Maldives – India sports ties' even as New Delhi is helping build mega sporting infrastructure in the Indian ocean country. Speaking exclusively to Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, Ahmed Mahloof said that the recently announced line of credit will be used for, "developing the first-ever National Centers for Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis and Netball" of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>February saw the visit of India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar to the Maldives during which India announced a $40 million line of credit (LOC) for sports infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Island country. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the Ekuveni stadium. India is also building state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé and is training young Maldivians in cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="029f5768-67bc-4e22-b8db-74dbc4e8d3a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EAM%20Jaishankar%20with%20Maldives%20sports%20minister%20Ahmed%20Mahloof%20%20%282%29.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong><em>In picture:&nbsp;Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof (Image credit:Twitter)</em></strong></p>

<p>Wion: How do you see India-Maldives sports ties?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahmed Mahloof: India has always provided support for the development of sports in the Maldives. Our national teams have had training camps in India and India has always provided technical assistance for our sports associations. We are installing 61 outdoor gyms and the development of Ekuveni Synthetic Track was also made possible due to the generous aid provided by India. I believe we are writing history in Maldives – India sports ties. External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar announced a USD 40 Million LoC for sports infrastructure and the bidding process for Maldives first International Cricket Stadium is also underway. The future of Maldivian Sports looks bright with India by our side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wion: India offered $40 m LoC for sports infra. What kind of sports Infra you are looking at?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahmed Mahloof: We are looking at the development of synthetic tracks in several islands along with the development of badminton, volleyball, table tennis, and basketball facilities in different islands across the country. We’ll also be developing the first-ever national centers for basketball, volleyball, table tennis and netball under this credit line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wion: &nbsp;India is training the Maldives cricket team. Do u see the Maldives cricket team on the international stage? How do you see cricket diplomacy?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahmed Mahloof: India is the world’s leading cricket nation and I believe that with the assistance that is being provided we have a high chance of making it to the international stage in the near future. We also have very talented players and the development of the international cricket stadium will have a very positive impact in their development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wion: Do you think sports is the biggest bond between any two countries?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahmed Mahloof: PM Modi and President Solih’s excellent relationship has brought our nations much closer than ever. We share a very strong bond in various different fields and with the unprecedented assistance that is being provided to the Maldives – the India union will continue to grow in the upcoming years. Sports plays a vital role in the brotherly relations we share, and I would say India will always remain as our closest friends.&nbsp;</p>


Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof has said that India and Maldives are 'writing history in the Maldives – India sports ties' even as New Delhi is helping build mega sporting infrastructure in the Indian ocean country.

Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof has said that India and Maldives are 'writing history in the Maldives – India sports ties' even as New Delhi is helping build mega sporting infrastructure in the Indian ocean country. Speaking exclusively to Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, Ahmed Mahloof said that the recently announced line of credit will be used for, "developing the first-ever National Centers for Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis and Netball" of the country. February saw the visit of India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar to the Maldives during which India announced a $40 million line of credit (LOC) for sports infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Island country. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the Ekuveni stadium. India is also building state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé and is training young Maldivians in cricket. In picture: Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof (Image credit:Twitter) Wion: How do you see India-Maldives sports ties? Ahmed Mahloof: India has always provided support for the development of sports in the Maldives. Our national teams have had training camps in India and India has always provided technical assistance for our sports associations. We are installing 61 outdoor gyms and the development of Ekuveni Synthetic Track was also made possible due to the generous aid provided by India. I believe we are writing history in Maldives – India sports ties. External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar announced a USD 40 Million LoC for sports infrastructure and the bidding process for Maldives first International Cricket Stadium is also underway. The future of Maldivian Sports looks bright with India by our side. Wion: India offered $40 m LoC for sports infra. What kind of sports Infra you are looking at? Ahmed Mahloof: We are looking at the development of synthetic tracks in several islands along with the development of badminton, volleyball, table tennis, and basketball facilities in different islands across the country. We’ll also be developing the first-ever national centers for basketball, volleyball, table tennis and netball under this credit line. Wion: India is training the Maldives cricket team. Do u see the Maldives cricket team on the international stage? How do you see cricket diplomacy? Ahmed Mahloof: India is the world’s leading cricket nation and I believe that with the assistance that is being provided we have a high chance of making it to the international stage in the near future. We also have very talented players and the development of the international cricket stadium will have a very positive impact in their development. Wion: Do you think sports is the biggest bond between any two countries? Ahmed Mahloof: PM Modi and President Solih’s excellent relationship has brought our nations much closer than ever. We share a very strong bond in various different fields and with the unprecedented assistance that is being provided to the Maldives – the India union will continue to grow in the upcoming years. Sports plays a vital role in the brotherly relations we share, and I would say India will always remain as our closest friends.

We are writing history in Maldives-India sports ties: Maldives sports minister

<p>Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu Maldives vacation with&nbsp;her husband, actor Karan Singh Grover is what travel goals are made of.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The couple is&nbsp;back from their refreshing Maldives vacation but continues to treat their fans with pictures of their trip. Recently, Bipasha posted a video of her cycling in the property where they were staying in the Maldives.<br />
<br />
In the video, the actress looks stunning in a white sheer ensemble and we also get a glimpse of the beautiful locales of Maldives. She captioned the video as, "Island lifeY#onewithnature @stregismaldives (sic)."<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL0vMgQjPG4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL0vMgQjPG4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL0vMgQjPG4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL0vMgQjPG4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by bipashabasusinghgrover (@bipashabasu)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<br />
The couple took off to the Maldives to celebrate Karan's birthday. Both Bipasha and Karan kept&nbsp;their fans updated with their whereabouts by posting pictures and videos from their trip.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL04vZwjzsv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL04vZwjzsv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL04vZwjzsv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CL04vZwjzsv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by bipashabasusinghgrover (@bipashabasu)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<br />
In another video, posted by the actress, Bipasha gave her fans a tour of the luxurious suite where the couple was staying.<br />
<br />
Bipasha and Karan worked together in the film Alone and tied the knot a year later in April 2016. On the work front, the couple was seen in the thriller web series Dangerous.</p>


Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu Maldives vacation with her husband, actor Karan Singh Grover is what travel goals are made of. The couple is back from their refreshing Maldives vacation but continues to treat their fans with pictures of their trip.

Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu Maldives vacation with her husband, actor Karan Singh Grover is what travel goals are made of. The couple is back from their refreshing Maldives vacation but continues to treat their fans with pictures of their trip. Recently, Bipasha posted a video of her cycling in the property where they were staying in the Maldives. In the video, the actress looks stunning in a white sheer ensemble and we also get a glimpse of the beautiful locales of Maldives. She captioned the video as, "Island lifeY#onewithnature @stregismaldives (sic)." View this post on Instagram A post shared by bipashabasusinghgrover (@bipashabasu) × The couple took off to the Maldives to celebrate Karan's birthday. Both Bipasha and Karan kept their fans updated with their whereabouts by posting pictures and videos from their trip. View this post on Instagram A post shared by bipashabasusinghgrover (@bipashabasu) × In another video, posted by the actress, Bipasha gave her fans a tour of the luxurious suite where the couple was staying. Bipasha and Karan worked together in the film Alone and tied the knot a year later in April 2016. On the work front, the couple was seen in the thriller web series Dangerous.

Bipasha Basu Maldives posts will make you crave for a beach vacation

India will always be a reliable security partner for the Maldives, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said here on Sunday, as the Centre signed a USD 50 million defence Line of Credit agreement with the island nation to facilitate capability building in the maritime domain.

India signs USD 50 million defence LoC agreement to boost maritime capabilities of Maldives

<p>Several neighbouring countries praised India as the country starts giving millions of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines</a>&nbsp;to South Asian nations, a move that also counters China's dominance in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal, free shipments of Covid-19 vaccines of Oxford-AstraZeneca, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, the world's biggest producer of vaccines, have started arriving.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch&nbsp;|</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gifts-covid-19-vaccine-doses-to-its-neighbours-358367/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Soon, Myanmar and Seychelles will also receive coronavirus jabs as India pushes ahead with vaccine diplomacy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-receive-coronavirus-jab-in-second-phase-reports-358347">PM Narendra Modi to receive coronavirus jab in second phase: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>"The government of India has shown goodwill by providing the vaccine in grant. This is at the people's level, it is the public who are suffering the most from COVID-19," Nepal's Minister for Health and Population Hridayesh Tripathi was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has started providing vaccines to its Himalayan neighbour Nepal despite strained ties that have worsened post-Nepal's inclusion of Indian territories in its map.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Delhi on Thursday officially handed over 2 million doses of Covid-19 jabs to Bangladesh as a gift.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India had stood by Bangladesh during the (1971) Liberation War, and today, when the pandemic is rattling the world, India again came with gifts of vaccines," Bangladesh foreign minister Dr AK Abdul Momen was reported as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Bangladesh was supposed to get 110,000 doses of vaccine free from Chinese firm Sinovac Biotech, but the country rejected to bear the development cost causing a deadlock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A government source told Reuters that India is mulling over providing about 12 million to 20 million shots to its neighbours in the first wave of assistance in the next three to four weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is also helping some of these countries by providing them training to administer vaccines and setting up facilities to help in the rollout, the source added.&nbsp;</p>


Several neighbouring countries praised India as the country starts giving millions of coronavirus vaccines to South Asian nations, a move that also counters China's dominance in the region.

Several neighbouring countries praised India as the country starts giving millions of coronavirus vaccines to South Asian nations, a move that also counters China's dominance in the region. In Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal, free shipments of Covid-19 vaccines of Oxford-AstraZeneca, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, the world's biggest producer of vaccines, have started arriving. Watch | Soon, Myanmar and Seychelles will also receive coronavirus jabs as India pushes ahead with vaccine diplomacy. Also read | PM Narendra Modi to receive coronavirus jab in second phase: Reports "The government of India has shown goodwill by providing the vaccine in grant. This is at the people's level, it is the public who are suffering the most from COVID-19," Nepal's Minister for Health and Population Hridayesh Tripathi was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. India has started providing vaccines to its Himalayan neighbour Nepal despite strained ties that have worsened post-Nepal's inclusion of Indian territories in its map. New Delhi on Thursday officially handed over 2 million doses of Covid-19 jabs to Bangladesh as a gift. "India had stood by Bangladesh during the (1971) Liberation War, and today, when the pandemic is rattling the world, India again came with gifts of vaccines," Bangladesh foreign minister Dr AK Abdul Momen was reported as saying by news agency PTI. Earlier, Bangladesh was supposed to get 110,000 doses of vaccine free from Chinese firm Sinovac Biotech, but the country rejected to bear the development cost causing a deadlock. A government source told Reuters that India is mulling over providing about 12 million to 20 million shots to its neighbours in the first wave of assistance in the next three to four weeks. India is also helping some of these countries by providing them training to administer vaccines and setting up facilities to help in the rollout, the source added.

India's vaccine diplomacy earns praise from South Asian neighbours as Chinese dominance declines

<p>Maldives's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has thanked the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the country got 100,000 doses of India manufactured covid vaccine on Wednesday. The Maldives got the Oxford Astrazeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India --Covishield as a gift from India. The gift was sent to Male within 96 hours of its India's countrywide roll-out.</p>

<p>Addressing the nation, President Solih said, "This vaccine is a generous donation from the Government of India to the people of the Maldives. On behalf of the people and the Government of the Maldives, and in my own name, I thank the friendly people and the Government of India, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adding," With the Grace of Almighty Allah, we can confirm that we have secured enough vaccines for the Maldives. Our goal is to provide free vaccines to all Maldivians and residents in the coming months."</p>

<p>The consignment of vaccines was handed over to Maldives Government by Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir in a special ceremony held at Male’ airport. Present on the occasion were Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Health Minister Ahmed Naseem.</p>

<p>Speaking on the occasion, the Indian high commissioner said, "With the support of India, Maldives will be able to launch the inoculation drive so early on in the global fight against COVID pandemic". Highlighting, the "arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine in the Maldives today, marks another milestone in our bilateral relations, that now serve as a model in South Asia."&nbsp;At the ceremony, the Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid spoke in Hindi calling India a "dost" (friend) and recalled how New Delhi helped bring back stranded Maldivians in Wuhan, sent medicines amid the pandemic.</p>

<p>The Maldives with a population of 500,000 will be benefitting&nbsp;by the supplies from India. The government of Maldives has proposed to purchase 300,000 doses of vaccine from Serum Institute of India. The vaccine given by India will be used to inoculate frontline healthcare workers, the elderly, and those with co-morbidities.</p>

<p>Sources from the Indian High Commission in the Maldives said, "In addition to the doses gifted on wednesay, India will also assist the Maldives in securing supplies of vaccines at affordable rates from Indian manufacturing companies". They also pointed out that by "by delivering Covid vaccine within days of its rollout, India has once again demonstrated its willingness and ability to act as a First Responder to crises in the Maldives."</p>

<p>Amid the pandemic last year, New Delhi reached out to Male with supplies of medicines, food and also sent a 14 member rapid response team consisting of doctors and paramedics. In April 2020, India launched operation Sanjeevani with an Indian air force plane airlifting 6.2 tonnes of essential medical supplies to the country. Under mission Sagar one of the Indian Navy, India reached out to 5 Indian ocean countries including the Maldives. Indian Navy Ship Kesari delivered 600 tons of food items to the Indian Ocean island country.</p>

<p>The covid pandemic had a major impact on the country's tourism-driven economy as well. In September 2020, India extended urgent financial assistance of US$ 250 million to the Maldives through investment by SBI in the Government of Maldives bonds. That was the first assistance package of such a magnitude announced by the Indian govt to any country to deal with the COVID pandemic.</p>


Maldives's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has thanked the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the country got 100,000 doses of India manufactured covid vaccine on Wednesday.

Maldives's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has thanked the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the country got 100,000 doses of India manufactured covid vaccine on Wednesday. The Maldives got the Oxford Astrazeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India --Covishield as a gift from India. The gift was sent to Male within 96 hours of its India's countrywide roll-out. Addressing the nation, President Solih said, "This vaccine is a generous donation from the Government of India to the people of the Maldives. On behalf of the people and the Government of the Maldives, and in my own name, I thank the friendly people and the Government of India, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi." Adding," With the Grace of Almighty Allah, we can confirm that we have secured enough vaccines for the Maldives. Our goal is to provide free vaccines to all Maldivians and residents in the coming months." The consignment of vaccines was handed over to Maldives Government by Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir in a special ceremony held at Male’ airport. Present on the occasion were Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Health Minister Ahmed Naseem. Speaking on the occasion, the Indian high commissioner said, "With the support of India, Maldives will be able to launch the inoculation drive so early on in the global fight against COVID pandemic". Highlighting, the "arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine in the Maldives today, marks another milestone in our bilateral relations, that now serve as a model in South Asia." At the ceremony, the Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid spoke in Hindi calling India a "dost" (friend) and recalled how New Delhi helped bring back stranded Maldivians in Wuhan, sent medicines amid the pandemic. The Maldives with a population of 500,000 will be benefitting by the supplies from India. The government of Maldives has proposed to purchase 300,000 doses of vaccine from Serum Institute of India. The vaccine given by India will be used to inoculate frontline healthcare workers, the elderly, and those with co-morbidities. Sources from the Indian High Commission in the Maldives said, "In addition to the doses gifted on wednesay, India will also assist the Maldives in securing supplies of vaccines at affordable rates from Indian manufacturing companies". They also pointed out that by "by delivering Covid vaccine within days of its rollout, India has once again demonstrated its willingness and ability to act as a First Responder to crises in the Maldives." Amid the pandemic last year, New Delhi reached out to Male with supplies of medicines, food and also sent a 14 member rapid response team consisting of doctors and paramedics. In April 2020, India launched operation Sanjeevani with an Indian air force plane airlifting 6.2 tonnes of essential medical supplies to the country. Under mission Sagar one of the Indian Navy, India reached out to 5 Indian ocean countries including the Maldives. Indian Navy Ship Kesari delivered 600 tons of food items to the Indian Ocean island country. The covid pandemic had a major impact on the country's tourism-driven economy as well. In September 2020, India extended urgent financial assistance of US$ 250 million to the Maldives through investment by SBI in the Government of Maldives bonds. That was the first assistance package of such a magnitude announced by the Indian govt to any country to deal with the COVID pandemic.

Maldives' president thanks India as New Delhi's COVID vaccine gift reaches Male

<p>The Maldives will become the first country to receive the Indian COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine on Wednesday.&nbsp;The Indian Ocean island country will receive Oxford Astrazeneca's COVISHIELD vaccine produced by Serum Institute of India. The Maldives government has given all regulatory approvals and permissions.</p>

<p>The Indian consignment will arrive at 2&nbsp;pm local time by Air India flight at Velana International Airport Malé. The development reaffirms India's reputation as the first responder in an emergency situation, especially in the neighbourhood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maldives has been the largest COVID-19 assistance recipient in India’s neighbourhood including medicine supply, food supply, medical team, training, and financial assistance of $250 million. Under the operation Sanjeevani, the Indian Air force airlifted 6.3 tonnes of essential medicines and consumables from various cities in India in April&nbsp;2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;In fact, India sent 600 tonnes of food items to the Maldives via Indian Naval Ship Kesari. The package included&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Another key focus has been capacity building with the training of Maldivian healthcare officials.&nbsp;</p>


The Maldives will become the first country to receive the Indian COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday. The Indian Ocean island country will receive Oxford Astrazeneca's COVISHIELD vaccine produced by Serum Institute of India.

The Maldives will become the first country to receive the Indian COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday. The Indian Ocean island country will receive Oxford Astrazeneca's COVISHIELD vaccine produced by Serum Institute of India. The Maldives government has given all regulatory approvals and permissions. The Indian consignment will arrive at 2 pm local time by Air India flight at Velana International Airport Malé. The development reaffirms India's reputation as the first responder in an emergency situation, especially in the neighbourhood. Maldives has been the largest COVID-19 assistance recipient in India’s neighbourhood including medicine supply, food supply, medical team, training, and financial assistance of $250 million. Under the operation Sanjeevani, the Indian Air force airlifted 6.3 tonnes of essential medicines and consumables from various cities in India in April 2020. 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 included 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. Another key focus has been capacity building with the training of Maldivian healthcare officials.

Maldives to be the first country to receive Indian COVID-19 vaccine

<p>Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday inaugurated the first India funded grant project of 2021 in the capital Male. The project to upgrade the Ekuveni running track into a state-of-the-art synthetic nine-lane running track is the 8th Indian grant project of the country in the last 6 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Present on the occasion was India's high commissioner Sunjay Sudhir. The ceremony included a limited over cricket match with the participation of the President and Indian high commissioner, a relay race, and showcase events by differently-abled children. President Solih closely monitored the progress of the upgrade work and extended his heartfelt appreciation to all parties involved in the project's expeditious completion.</p>

<p>The work on the Ekuveni running track and cricket ground started in September of last year. In fact, the groundbreaking ceremony for the project took place in November of 2020 during the Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla's Maldives visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the inauguration the Indian HC said, "Relations between India and Maldives are historical, comprehensive and unique. India has not only supported the plans and priorities of the govt of Maldives but has also been the first responder in times of crisis".</p>

<p>Highlighting, "The high impact community development projects undertaken through Indian grant assistance constitute an important dimension of the dynamic development partnership between our 2 countries."</p>

<p>The next few months will see more such projects being inaugurated. These include, Rasdhoo Coastal protection project, Wetland Park in Faresmathoda, a refurbished ‘My Home - Fiyavathi’ orphanage in Hulhumale’, Central Park and renovated Jetty in Hulhumale’, classrooms in Lhohi and Kinolhas schools.</p>

<p>When it comes to Addu city, India is assisting in setting up 3 fish processing plants, 5 eco-tourism zones and a Drug-Detoxification Centre. In northern islands, India's grant assistance includes setting up a bottled-water plant in Hoarafushi, and a soil- testing lab at the Hanimaadhoo Agricultural Research Centre.</p>

<p>The Ekuveni Project is the only track of international standards in the country. It forms part of a larger set of 30 high impact community development projects being implemented across the Maldives by India with a financial outlay of $13 million.</p>


Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday inaugurated the first India funded grant project of 2021 in the capital Male. The project to upgrade the Ekuveni running track into a state-of-the-art synthetic nine-lane running track is the 8th Indian grant project of the country in the last 6 months.

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday inaugurated the first India funded grant project of 2021 in the capital Male. The project to upgrade the Ekuveni running track into a state-of-the-art synthetic nine-lane running track is the 8th Indian grant project of the country in the last 6 months. Present on the occasion was India's high commissioner Sunjay Sudhir. The ceremony included a limited over cricket match with the participation of the President and Indian high commissioner, a relay race, and showcase events by differently-abled children. President Solih closely monitored the progress of the upgrade work and extended his heartfelt appreciation to all parties involved in the project's expeditious completion. The work on the Ekuveni running track and cricket ground started in September of last year. In fact, the groundbreaking ceremony for the project took place in November of 2020 during the Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla's Maldives visit. Speaking at the inauguration the Indian HC said, "Relations between India and Maldives are historical, comprehensive and unique. India has not only supported the plans and priorities of the govt of Maldives but has also been the first responder in times of crisis". Highlighting, "The high impact community development projects undertaken through Indian grant assistance constitute an important dimension of the dynamic development partnership between our 2 countries." The next few months will see more such projects being inaugurated. These include, Rasdhoo Coastal protection project, Wetland Park in Faresmathoda, a refurbished ‘My Home - Fiyavathi’ orphanage in Hulhumale’, Central Park and renovated Jetty in Hulhumale’, classrooms in Lhohi and Kinolhas schools. When it comes to Addu city, India is assisting in setting up 3 fish processing plants, 5 eco-tourism zones and a Drug-Detoxification Centre. In northern islands, India's grant assistance includes setting up a bottled-water plant in Hoarafushi, and a soil- testing lab at the Hanimaadhoo Agricultural Research Centre. The Ekuveni Project is the only track of international standards in the country. It forms part of a larger set of 30 high impact community development projects being implemented across the Maldives by India with a financial outlay of $13 million.

First India funded project of 2021 inaugurated in the Maldives; several more lined up

<p>It’s the last day of this year, 2020 and celebrities around the world have already left for their respective holiday places to welcome the new year. Among many who were seen leaving the country earlier this week were young actors <strong>Ananya Panday and Ishaan Khatter.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The two have now reached Maldives as they posted videos and pictures from their luxury resort nestled on the waters. The water mansions look exotic as the two dropped their winter wear (it’s cold in India) and switched to beach wear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ananya Panday looked cute in a bikini as she posted photos from her water resort. In one, she poses with a burger while winking at the camera. We are guessing Ishaan was the camera person for this photograph. Meanwhile, Ishaan also posed for the cameras as he wore swimming goggles. The two will surely give you major FOMO as they welcome the new year in a beautiful water island.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJbKMzjAtAO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJbKMzjAtAO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJbKMzjAtAO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJbKMzjAtAO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ananya 💛💫 (@ananyapanday)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><br />
<img alt="ananya " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f255033c-9d57-4787-a3bf-95f252072a99" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HORIZONS%20%2857%29.jpg" /></p>

<p>Ananya Panday and Ishaan Khatter are said to have come close while shooting for their film<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-ishaan-khatter-ananya-pandays-khaali-peeli-to-get-theatrical-release-in-select-overseas-markets-331869"> ‘Khaali Peeli’</a>. It was released on an OTT platform a few months ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ananya will next be seen with Vijay Deverakonda and Ishaan will be seen with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/katrina-kaif">Katrina Kaif</a>&nbsp;in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-katrina-kaif-ishaan-khatter-and-siddhanth-chaturvedi-to-start-filming-for-phone-bhoot-340043"> ‘Phone Bhoot’.&nbsp;</a></p>


It’s the last day of this year, 2020 and celebrities around the world have already left for their respective holiday places to welcome the new year. Among many who were seen leaving the country earlier this week were young actors Ananya Panday and Ishaan Khatter.

It’s the last day of this year, 2020 and celebrities around the world have already left for their respective holiday places to welcome the new year. Among many who were seen leaving the country earlier this week were young actors Ananya Panday and Ishaan Khatter. The two have now reached Maldives as they posted videos and pictures from their luxury resort nestled on the waters. The water mansions look exotic as the two dropped their winter wear (it’s cold in India) and switched to beach wear. Ananya Panday looked cute in a bikini as she posted photos from her water resort. In one, she poses with a burger while winking at the camera. We are guessing Ishaan was the camera person for this photograph. Meanwhile, Ishaan also posed for the cameras as he wore swimming goggles. The two will surely give you major FOMO as they welcome the new year in a beautiful water island. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ananya 💛💫 (@ananyapanday) × Ananya Panday and Ishaan Khatter are said to have come close while shooting for their film ‘Khaali Peeli’. It was released on an OTT platform a few months ago. Ananya will next be seen with Vijay Deverakonda and Ishaan will be seen with Katrina Kaif in ‘Phone Bhoot’.

In pics: Ananya Panday, Ishaan Khatter spark dating rumours as they vacation together in Maldives

<p>Till the 1970s, Maldives was fed by sporadic tourism, mostly from the boats calling into islands while sailing through the Indian Ocean. It was only in 1972, the country’s tourism industry witnessed coming up of two resorts with 280 guest accommodation. During the 80s, the number of resorts increased to 55. At present, there are more than 160 resorts in the island country with white sand, sun and the sea.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
While the destination is known for leisure vacationing, it has also got a decent number of honeymooners and a fair number of divers that add the flavour of diversity to country’s tourism. India counts as one of the highest market sources to Maldives’ tourism. In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists went to Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime is among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists.<br />
<br />
However, more tourists mean further exploitation of the nature. But not for this country. Thanks to the government’s concrete measures, Maldives has been able to keep a check. And not just that, the resorts have come forward to minimize carbon footprints. What makes the strategy remarkable is the fact that the resorts are also engaging with the tourists and turning conservation into tourist activities thus conveying the message globally. So in a way, the hotel industry, which is generally called out for exploiting the nature is turning out to be custodians of the country's prosperity and protectors of marine assets.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>A learning lesson!</strong><br />
<br />
Maldives is home to around 250 species of corals and 41 islands that have unique wetland ecosystems. To preserve its shores and enhance its increasing blue economy, Maldives’ Ministry of Environment is implementing the Coastal Protection Projects with support from the World Bank. The projects focus on protecting coral reef and coastal wetlands, which are rich in biodiversity and have immense recreational value and act as bulwarks against coastal erosion.<br />
<br />
<strong>The Indian touch</strong><br />
<br />
With support from the Indian Government, Maldives has also implemented a coastal protection project at Alifu Atholhu Uthuruburi Rasdhoo. The project will provide the necessary coastal protection to an area of a length of 214 meters, facing severe coastal erosion. This area was used as a landfill previously, and with coastal erosion waste buried there has risen to the surface, contaminating the water resources and polluting the beach area. The project scope will also include beach replenishment consisting of cleaning up of waste debris and replacement of sand, and the construction of a groyne field.<br />
<br />
<strong>No mass fishing</strong><br />
<br />
Marine life is the heartbeat of the island country. And to save the fish, the government has put a ban on mass fishing. Instead the fishermen use spears to hunt yellow fin tuna. Maldives being one of the largest exporters of tuna, this practice ensures the commercial activity stays within sustainable safety net.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sustainable indulgence</strong><br />
<br />
While the earlier efforts made by the government works in the public front, the resorts also share the responsibility. Heritance Aarah, Maldives’ first resort to get Leed Certification for its green architecture. Maldives suffers from a unique problem. Though it produces negligible greenhouse emission, the sea is affected due to pollution from adjoining areas. And to minimize that, Heritance Resort has built a framework to create a healthy, highly efficient, cost saving green buildings. It saves around 30% of energy compared to conventional hotels of the same scale. The hot water requirement is generated through heat recovery generator. Even with water all around, it has developed a robust rainwater harvesting and saves all the water wasted in the desalination process through reverse osmosis. While these are at the infrastructure level, the resort works in demonstrating the native lives of Maldivians for tourists by creating a local village. The hotel plans to invite local school students to aware them about sustainable lives that locals earlier led and how the future generation can preserve the same.</p>

<p><img alt="m" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b9438c03-7739-433f-a5c5-6a59427ec37c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Maldives%20%281%29.jpg" /><br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Plastic recycling&nbsp;</strong><br />
<br />
Pollution from plastic is a major issue that is looms large around ocean. We have seen pathetic photos of turtles getting choked from plastic bottles. To address that, Furaveri Island Resort &amp; Spa has its own water bottling plant. It recycles glass bottles and serves to the guest rooms and restaurants. The resort is also planning to bring in glass bottles for guests to carry during excursion.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Another international chain, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island have collaborated with environmental network Parley for the Oceans. The plastic waste is collected and made into tote bags, which the guests can carry as souvenirs.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Keeping up with the Corals</strong><br />
<br />
In the last few years, rising sea temperature has resulted in bleaching of the coral reef around the world. And Maldives is no exception. Plenty of marine animals feed on corals and use the coral bed as their homes. At such a critical crisis, resorts like Anantara Dhigu and Seaside Finolhu are offering their guests a unique activity – Coral Restoration. The guests can enjoy going down into the ocean and planting corals. They can commemorate their anniversaries and birthdays through this and the resort shares photos of grown up corals every year as a gift. This is done by placing coral frames under the ocean. In a few years, these corals under suitable environment generally tend to regrow and spread out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="m" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e103794-8122-4574-9716-7564329a507e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Maldives.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>Surgery on turtles</strong><br />
<br />
No matter how critical the method be, guests can engage in this activity and share the responsibility. Many resorts including Coco Collection Baa Atoll have come up with ‘Save a Turtle’ through Oliver Ridley Project in Maldives. There is a full-functional marine turtle rescue centre, which operates on turtles that often choke from plastic and other hazardous elements.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Coco Bodu Hithi Resort offers its guests to adopt a turtle. Guests on an immersive expedition through snorkelling are briefed about the plastic perils turtles face. They can now adapt a turtle and help it recover and go back to the sea by sharing the fund.&nbsp;</p>


Till the 1970s, Maldives was fed by sporadic tourism, mostly from the boats calling into islands while sailing through the Indian Ocean. It was only in 1972, the country’s tourism industry witnessed coming up of two resorts with 280 guest accommodation.

Till the 1970s, Maldives was fed by sporadic tourism, mostly from the boats calling into islands while sailing through the Indian Ocean. It was only in 1972, the country’s tourism industry witnessed coming up of two resorts with 280 guest accommodation. During the 80s, the number of resorts increased to 55. At present, there are more than 160 resorts in the island country with white sand, sun and the sea. While the destination is known for leisure vacationing, it has also got a decent number of honeymooners and a fair number of divers that add the flavour of diversity to country’s tourism. India counts as one of the highest market sources to Maldives’ tourism. In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists went to Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime is among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists. However, more tourists mean further exploitation of the nature. But not for this country. Thanks to the government’s concrete measures, Maldives has been able to keep a check. And not just that, the resorts have come forward to minimize carbon footprints. What makes the strategy remarkable is the fact that the resorts are also engaging with the tourists and turning conservation into tourist activities thus conveying the message globally. So in a way, the hotel industry, which is generally called out for exploiting the nature is turning out to be custodians of the country's prosperity and protectors of marine assets. A learning lesson! Maldives is home to around 250 species of corals and 41 islands that have unique wetland ecosystems. To preserve its shores and enhance its increasing blue economy, Maldives’ Ministry of Environment is implementing the Coastal Protection Projects with support from the World Bank. The projects focus on protecting coral reef and coastal wetlands, which are rich in biodiversity and have immense recreational value and act as bulwarks against coastal erosion. The Indian touch With support from the Indian Government, Maldives has also implemented a coastal protection project at Alifu Atholhu Uthuruburi Rasdhoo. The project will provide the necessary coastal protection to an area of a length of 214 meters, facing severe coastal erosion. This area was used as a landfill previously, and with coastal erosion waste buried there has risen to the surface, contaminating the water resources and polluting the beach area. The project scope will also include beach replenishment consisting of cleaning up of waste debris and replacement of sand, and the construction of a groyne field. No mass fishing Marine life is the heartbeat of the island country. And to save the fish, the government has put a ban on mass fishing. Instead the fishermen use spears to hunt yellow fin tuna. Maldives being one of the largest exporters of tuna, this practice ensures the commercial activity stays within sustainable safety net. Sustainable indulgence While the earlier efforts made by the government works in the public front, the resorts also share the responsibility. Heritance Aarah, Maldives’ first resort to get Leed Certification for its green architecture. Maldives suffers from a unique problem. Though it produces negligible greenhouse emission, the sea is affected due to pollution from adjoining areas. And to minimize that, Heritance Resort has built a framework to create a healthy, highly efficient, cost saving green buildings. It saves around 30% of energy compared to conventional hotels of the same scale. The hot water requirement is generated through heat recovery generator. Even with water all around, it has developed a robust rainwater harvesting and saves all the water wasted in the desalination process through reverse osmosis. While these are at the infrastructure level, the resort works in demonstrating the native lives of Maldivians for tourists by creating a local village. The hotel plans to invite local school students to aware them about sustainable lives that locals earlier led and how the future generation can preserve the same. Plastic recycling Pollution from plastic is a major issue that is looms large around ocean. We have seen pathetic photos of turtles getting choked from plastic bottles. To address that, Furaveri Island Resort & Spa has its own water bottling plant. It recycles glass bottles and serves to the guest rooms and restaurants. The resort is also planning to bring in glass bottles for guests to carry during excursion. Another international chain, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island have collaborated with environmental network Parley for the Oceans. The plastic waste is collected and made into tote bags, which the guests can carry as souvenirs. Keeping up with the Corals In the last few years, rising sea temperature has resulted in bleaching of the coral reef around the world. And Maldives is no exception. Plenty of marine animals feed on corals and use the coral bed as their homes. At such a critical crisis, resorts like Anantara Dhigu and Seaside Finolhu are offering their guests a unique activity – Coral Restoration. The guests can enjoy going down into the ocean and planting corals. They can commemorate their anniversaries and birthdays through this and the resort shares photos of grown up corals every year as a gift. This is done by placing coral frames under the ocean. In a few years, these corals under suitable environment generally tend to regrow and spread out. Surgery on turtles No matter how critical the method be, guests can engage in this activity and share the responsibility. Many resorts including Coco Collection Baa Atoll have come up with ‘Save a Turtle’ through Oliver Ridley Project in Maldives. There is a full-functional marine turtle rescue centre, which operates on turtles that often choke from plastic and other hazardous elements. Coco Bodu Hithi Resort offers its guests to adopt a turtle. Guests on an immersive expedition through snorkelling are briefed about the plastic perils turtles face. They can now adapt a turtle and help it recover and go back to the sea by sharing the fund.

The Sustainable Maldives: A learning lesson for tourist destinations across the world

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval took part in the dialogue along with Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major Gen (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne and Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi.

India, Lanka and Maldives agree to bolster maritime security cooperation

<p>India-Sri Lanka and the Maldives on Saturday agreed to further strengthen maritime co-operation in a high-level trilateral dialogue held after a gap of six years. The fourth National Security Advisor-level trilateral talks were hosted by Sri Lanka. Indian NSA Ajit Doval represented India and held discussions with ri Lankan Defence Secretary Major Gen (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne and Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi.</p>

<p>According to a joint statement issued by Sri Lanka's Ministry of Defence, the three countries -- recognising the significance of the forum for promoting meaningful cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region on common issues pertaining to maritime security -- took stock of the current maritime security environment in the region.</p>

<p>They discussed mutual cooperation in the areas of Maritime Domain Awareness, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, Joint Exercises, Capacity Building, Maritime Security and Threats, Marine Pollution, and Maritime Underwater Heritage, it said.</p>

<p>They agreed to further strengthen cooperation in dealing with these challenges, to ensure peace and security in the region for common benefit, the joint statement said.</p>

<p>The three countries also exchanged views on common security threats and agreed to broad base cooperation by expanding the scope to improve intelligence sharing and include issues like terrorism, radicalisation, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, cyber security and effect of climate change on maritime environment, it said.</p>

<p>Northern Indian Ocean is traditionally seen as a part of influence sphere of Indian Navy. But China has increased its presence in these waters in recent years.</p>

<p>China views the Maldives and Sri Lanka as key to its Maritime Silk Road project in the Indian Ocean. It has already acquired the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka on long lease and established a military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa.</p>

<p>India, Sri Lanka and Maldives agreed to meet regularly to share, discuss and ensure timely implementation of decisions taken at the meeting. They also decided to hold Deputy NSA level working group meetings biannually for cooperation at operational level, according to the statement.</p>

<p>Mauritius and Seychelles were represented virtually at senior officials' level, it said, adding that in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dialogue was conducted adhering to strict health guidelines using the 'Air Bubble' concept for the visiting delegations.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka, India and the Maldives launched the Trilateral NSA level Meeting on Maritime Security Cooperation in 2011 and three meetings have been held so far.</p>

<p>The past deliberations and outcomes have helped the three countries in improving close coordination in maritime security of the region. These were supplemented by Deputy NSA level meetings for sustained engagements and implementation of the discussions at the NSA level meetings, the statement said.</p>

<p>Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena addressed the meeting as the chief guest. Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath Colombage also attended the event, the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry tweeted.</p>

<p>Doval, who arrived in Colombo on Friday for the dialogue, on Friday met Didi and held a cordial and detailed discussion on deepening bilateral partnership with the key island nation in the Indian Ocean.</p>

<p>Doval also met Gunaratne on Friday and they agreed on several steps to further strengthen the "valuable" cooperation between the two countries which also contributes to peace and security in the region.</p>

<p>"NSA Ajit Doval met Major Gen(Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne, Defence Secretary of SriLanka &amp; discussed matters pertaining to the growing defence and security partnership between the two countries," the Indian High Commission in Colombo said in a tweet.</p>

<p>The high-level trilateral meeting is designed to initiate collective action on maritime security including maritime domain awareness, legal regimes, train in search and rescue, maritime pollution response, information sharing, curbing piracy drugs arms and contraband trafficking in the Indian Ocean region.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi said the NSA-level trilateral meeting had served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries.</p>

<p>"The meeting will provide an opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region," the MEA said in a statement.</p>

<p>This is Doval's second official visit to Sri Lanka this year. In January, he visited the island nation and discussed a range of bilateral issues, including strengthening cooperation in defence, intelligence sharing and maritime security with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(With PTI inputs)</strong></p>


India-Sri Lanka and the Maldives on Saturday agreed to further strengthen maritime co-operation in a high-level trilateral dialogue held after a gap of six years.

India-Sri Lanka and the Maldives on Saturday agreed to further strengthen maritime co-operation in a high-level trilateral dialogue held after a gap of six years. The fourth National Security Advisor-level trilateral talks were hosted by Sri Lanka. Indian NSA Ajit Doval represented India and held discussions with ri Lankan Defence Secretary Major Gen (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne and Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi. According to a joint statement issued by Sri Lanka's Ministry of Defence, the three countries -- recognising the significance of the forum for promoting meaningful cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region on common issues pertaining to maritime security -- took stock of the current maritime security environment in the region. They discussed mutual cooperation in the areas of Maritime Domain Awareness, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, Joint Exercises, Capacity Building, Maritime Security and Threats, Marine Pollution, and Maritime Underwater Heritage, it said. They agreed to further strengthen cooperation in dealing with these challenges, to ensure peace and security in the region for common benefit, the joint statement said. The three countries also exchanged views on common security threats and agreed to broad base cooperation by expanding the scope to improve intelligence sharing and include issues like terrorism, radicalisation, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, cyber security and effect of climate change on maritime environment, it said. Northern Indian Ocean is traditionally seen as a part of influence sphere of Indian Navy. But China has increased its presence in these waters in recent years. China views the Maldives and Sri Lanka as key to its Maritime Silk Road project in the Indian Ocean. It has already acquired the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka on long lease and established a military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. India, Sri Lanka and Maldives agreed to meet regularly to share, discuss and ensure timely implementation of decisions taken at the meeting. They also decided to hold Deputy NSA level working group meetings biannually for cooperation at operational level, according to the statement. Mauritius and Seychelles were represented virtually at senior officials' level, it said, adding that in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dialogue was conducted adhering to strict health guidelines using the 'Air Bubble' concept for the visiting delegations. Sri Lanka, India and the Maldives launched the Trilateral NSA level Meeting on Maritime Security Cooperation in 2011 and three meetings have been held so far. The past deliberations and outcomes have helped the three countries in improving close coordination in maritime security of the region. These were supplemented by Deputy NSA level meetings for sustained engagements and implementation of the discussions at the NSA level meetings, the statement said. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena addressed the meeting as the chief guest. Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath Colombage also attended the event, the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry tweeted. Doval, who arrived in Colombo on Friday for the dialogue, on Friday met Didi and held a cordial and detailed discussion on deepening bilateral partnership with the key island nation in the Indian Ocean. Doval also met Gunaratne on Friday and they agreed on several steps to further strengthen the "valuable" cooperation between the two countries which also contributes to peace and security in the region. "NSA Ajit Doval met Major Gen(Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne, Defence Secretary of SriLanka & discussed matters pertaining to the growing defence and security partnership between the two countries," the Indian High Commission in Colombo said in a tweet. The high-level trilateral meeting is designed to initiate collective action on maritime security including maritime domain awareness, legal regimes, train in search and rescue, maritime pollution response, information sharing, curbing piracy drugs arms and contraband trafficking in the Indian Ocean region. On Thursday, the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi said the NSA-level trilateral meeting had served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries. "The meeting will provide an opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region," the MEA said in a statement. This is Doval's second official visit to Sri Lanka this year. In January, he visited the island nation and discussed a range of bilateral issues, including strengthening cooperation in defence, intelligence sharing and maritime security with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. (With PTI inputs)

India-Sri Lanka-Maldives agree to bolster maritime co-operation

A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka & the Maldives has began. The meeting is taking place after six years.

India, Maldives, Sri Lanka hold trilateral maritime dialogue begins

<p>A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives began on Saturday, the Indian High Commission said.</p>

<p>Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena was the chief guest at the event.</p>

<p><strong>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-concludes-zydus-biotech-park-visit-next-stop-bharat-biotech-facility-in-hyderabad-346030" hreflang="en">PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad</a></strong></p>

<p>India is represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who arrived here yesterday. While Maldives foreign minister Mariya Didi and Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne represented their countries during the talks.</p>

<p>"The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister @DCRGunawardena was the chief guest at the event," the high commission tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DCRGunawardena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCRGunawardena</a> was the chief guest at the event. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_SriLanka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MFA_SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HCIMaldives?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HCIMaldives</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SLinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLinIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/fOXYGXNufC">pic.twitter.com/fOXYGXNufC</a></p>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1332546114759737344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd).</p>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the NSA-level trilateral meeting has served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-assures-vietnam-of-help-in-modernising-its-armed-forces-346016" hreflang="en">India assures Vietnam of help in modernising its armed forces</a></strong></p>

<p>The mechanism is being revived after six years as earlier meetings were held in 2011 in the Maldives, in 2013 in Sri Lanka, and in 2014 in India.</p>


A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives began on Saturday, the Indian High Commission said. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena was the chief guest at the event.

A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives began on Saturday, the Indian High Commission said. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena was the chief guest at the event. Also read| PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad India is represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who arrived here yesterday. While Maldives foreign minister Mariya Didi and Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne represented their countries during the talks. "The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister @DCRGunawardena was the chief guest at the event," the high commission tweeted. The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister @DCRGunawardena was the chief guest at the event. #lka @MEAIndia @MFA_SriLanka @HCIMaldives @SLinIndia pic.twitter.com/fOXYGXNufC — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) November 28, 2020 × This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the NSA-level trilateral meeting has served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries. Also read| India assures Vietnam of help in modernising its armed forces The mechanism is being revived after six years as earlier meetings were held in 2011 in the Maldives, in 2013 in Sri Lanka, and in 2014 in India.

India, Maldives, Sri Lanka trilateral meet on maritime security begins

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval arrived here on Friday for a trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend 4th trilateral maritime meet

<p>After a gap of 6 years, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka trilateral meet will take place with a focus on maritime security co-operation in the Indian Ocean region. The meet will take place in Colombo on November 27 and 28th, with India being represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This is the first foreign visit of the NSA amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka is being represented by its Defense Secretary Major General Kamal Gunaratne. Maldives Defense Minister Mariya Didi will be representing her country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the 4th time such a meeting is taking place. The first India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral took place in 2011 in the Maldives. Second meeting took place in Sri Lanka in 2013 while the third took place in India in 2014.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-can-never-forget-2611-mumbai-attacks-pm-modi-345539">India can never forget 26/11 Mumbai attacks: PM Modi</a></strong><br />
<br />
The Ministry of External Affairs while making the announcement called it an "effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries" and said it will provide an "opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region."</p>

<p>Bangladesh, Mauritius, and Seychelles are observer members of the trilateral meet and are expected to participate. Maldives foreign ministry said it will see discussion on "most pressing issues surrounding maritime security in the Indian Ocean region".</p>

<p>The meet happens even as the Indian ocean has seen an increased presence of Chinese vessels, a worrisome factor for several countries in the region. Chinese vessels have been found indulging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) activities in addition to being a security issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian Ocean region sees 80 per cent of world trade and a substantial oil trade taking place via its waters. It has 4 choke points, the most important being the strait of Malacca, which if disrupted can led to global trade being disrupted.</p>


After a gap of 6 years, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka trilateral meet will take place with a focus on maritime security co-operation in the Indian Ocean region.

After a gap of 6 years, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka trilateral meet will take place with a focus on maritime security co-operation in the Indian Ocean region. The meet will take place in Colombo on November 27 and 28th, with India being represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This is the first foreign visit of the NSA amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Sri Lanka is being represented by its Defense Secretary Major General Kamal Gunaratne. Maldives Defense Minister Mariya Didi will be representing her country. This is the 4th time such a meeting is taking place. The first India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral took place in 2011 in the Maldives. Second meeting took place in Sri Lanka in 2013 while the third took place in India in 2014. Also Read | India can never forget 26/11 Mumbai attacks: PM Modi The Ministry of External Affairs while making the announcement called it an "effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries" and said it will provide an "opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region." Bangladesh, Mauritius, and Seychelles are observer members of the trilateral meet and are expected to participate. Maldives foreign ministry said it will see discussion on "most pressing issues surrounding maritime security in the Indian Ocean region". The meet happens even as the Indian ocean has seen an increased presence of Chinese vessels, a worrisome factor for several countries in the region. Chinese vessels have been found indulging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) activities in addition to being a security issue. The Indian Ocean region sees 80 per cent of world trade and a substantial oil trade taking place via its waters. It has 4 choke points, the most important being the strait of Malacca, which if disrupted can led to global trade being disrupted.

India-Maldives-Sri Lanka to meet on Indian Ocean security after 6 years

<p>The Maldives is looking for a cohesive strategy for its Indo-Pacific engagement such that it can "benefit our own development priorities", the spokesperson for the Maldives President has said. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, spokesperson Ibrahim Hood said, "We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities."</p>

<p>The spokesperson also talked about ties with India, saying, "As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ties between the 2 countries have grown under the present President Solih administration with increased high-level visits. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited the country in early November. New Delhi is involved in a number of infra projects in the country and has extended support amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>WION: How does the Maldives see its partnership with India in 2020?<br />
Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives continues to cherish the excellent partnership we have with India. Since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was sworn into office, his administration has made a determined effort to improve the Maldives’ relationships the world over and with its immediate neighbours in particular. As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements. During the first two years of this Administration’s time in office the Maldives and India have exchanged several high-level visits including State visits by President Solih and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the course of these engagements, we have expanded cooperation on all spheres, from fisheries and trade to tourism, healthcare and regional defence. Our ties with India cannot be limited to governmental interactions alone. Large communities of Maldivians call India a second home. In turn, the Maldives hosts a significant population of Indian expatriates. The cultural influence that India exerts on the Maldives through mediums such as Bollywood is immense, and the civilizational and cultural ties that bind our two countries together run deep. Complemented by our two governments’ determination to maintain friendly relations, these factors will keep the Maldives-India relationship strong and enduring.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION: How has India helped the Maldives during the Covid-19 pandemic?<br />
Ibrahim Hood: India’s timely and generous assistance throughout the pandemic helped enhance the Maldives’ healthcare capacity, reduced the strain on our economy and increased the efficiency of our response to the disease. Through operation Sanjeevani they airlifted over six tons of essential medicines to the Maldives and sent a medical team to assist us with our health response. Prime Minister Modi’s early initiative to establish a South Asian Covid-19 fund to be used as a common resource to help the region combat the pandemic was also of great help to us. In addition to direct medical assistance, India has also provided us with support to help allay the indirect challenges of the disease, especially economic ones. They have provided us with budgetary support and set up lines of credit which have helped us shore up our foreign currency reserves. We cannot thank them enough for all that they have done for us. &nbsp;</p>

<p>WION: How are both countries working together on regional security in the Indian Ocean?<br />
Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives has always maintained the firm belief that the Indian ocean should be a zone of peace. The best way to do this is through increased cooperation amongst all stakeholders. All Indian Ocean States have a common interest in addressing the current drivers of regional insecurity from terrorism, to narcotics and human smuggling, to Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing, which diminishes our food security, to natural disasters such as the Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004, which seriously endanger our populations, economies and physical infrastructure. These issues cannot be resolved unilaterally, and all South Asian States must cooperate on such things as intelligence sharing, monitoring the Indian ocean’s vast EEZs and ensuring the safety and security of its Sea Lanes of Communication. That is why the Maldives has joined regional organizations such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) which strive to resolve these issues collectively.</p>

<p>WION: How do India and Maldives plan to work on issues such as connectivity?<br />
Ibrahim Hood: The South Asian region is one of the least integrated regions in the world. This is costing our populations. For instance, intraregional trade within South Asia is estimated to be 5% of our collective GDP compared to 25% for ASEAN countries. Reducing trade barriers between our countries could potentially raise billions of dollars for our economies. Furthermore, as I have alluded to in my answer to the previous question, South Asia faces a set of common challenges which can only be overcome by the region’s countries working together. The governments of both India and Maldives recognize these facts, which is why we have strengthened our bilateral partnerships with each other and with the rest of South Asia, and why we committed to strengthening the capacity of important regional bodies such as SAARC and IORA. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
WION: How do you see the Indo-Pacific concept? Do you support this concept?<br />
Ibrahim Hood: As Japan’s former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo famously expressed during his remarks while addressing India’s Lok Sabha and referring to the increasing linkages between the Indian and the Pacific Oceans, there is now a salient ‘confluence between the two seas’. The Indian and Pacific region together are now at the heart of international relations; together, they comprise a region that stretches from the West coast of the United States to the Western shores of India. Contributing to 2/3rds of the global GDP growth, home to several major world powers, six of which possess nuclear weapons and containing over half of the world’s population, the region’s centrality to global geopolitics is unquestionable. That the Indian and Pacific oceans should be recognized as a single political construct is increasingly recognized by the world’s great powers. For instance, that is why the United States has combined their previously separate Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean fleets into a single Indo-Pacific fleet. As an island nation centrally located in the Indian Ocean, sitting astride several important sea lines of communication (SLOCS) linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the Maldives must have a cohesive strategy regarding our Indo Pacific engagement, in terms of making use of the increased geopolitical attention given to this region, and making use of that to benefit our own development priorities. We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities.</p>


The Maldives is looking for a cohesive strategy for its Indo-Pacific engagement such that it can "benefit our own development priorities", the spokesperson for the Maldives President has said.

The Maldives is looking for a cohesive strategy for its Indo-Pacific engagement such that it can "benefit our own development priorities", the spokesperson for the Maldives President has said. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, spokesperson Ibrahim Hood said, "We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities." The spokesperson also talked about ties with India, saying, "As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements." Ties between the 2 countries have grown under the present President Solih administration with increased high-level visits. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited the country in early November. New Delhi is involved in a number of infra projects in the country and has extended support amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. WION: How does the Maldives see its partnership with India in 2020? Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives continues to cherish the excellent partnership we have with India. Since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was sworn into office, his administration has made a determined effort to improve the Maldives’ relationships the world over and with its immediate neighbours in particular. As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements. During the first two years of this Administration’s time in office the Maldives and India have exchanged several high-level visits including State visits by President Solih and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the course of these engagements, we have expanded cooperation on all spheres, from fisheries and trade to tourism, healthcare and regional defence. Our ties with India cannot be limited to governmental interactions alone. Large communities of Maldivians call India a second home. In turn, the Maldives hosts a significant population of Indian expatriates. The cultural influence that India exerts on the Maldives through mediums such as Bollywood is immense, and the civilizational and cultural ties that bind our two countries together run deep. Complemented by our two governments’ determination to maintain friendly relations, these factors will keep the Maldives-India relationship strong and enduring. WION: How has India helped the Maldives during the Covid-19 pandemic? Ibrahim Hood: India’s timely and generous assistance throughout the pandemic helped enhance the Maldives’ healthcare capacity, reduced the strain on our economy and increased the efficiency of our response to the disease. Through operation Sanjeevani they airlifted over six tons of essential medicines to the Maldives and sent a medical team to assist us with our health response. Prime Minister Modi’s early initiative to establish a South Asian Covid-19 fund to be used as a common resource to help the region combat the pandemic was also of great help to us. In addition to direct medical assistance, India has also provided us with support to help allay the indirect challenges of the disease, especially economic ones. They have provided us with budgetary support and set up lines of credit which have helped us shore up our foreign currency reserves. We cannot thank them enough for all that they have done for us. WION: How are both countries working together on regional security in the Indian Ocean? Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives has always maintained the firm belief that the Indian ocean should be a zone of peace. The best way to do this is through increased cooperation amongst all stakeholders. All Indian Ocean States have a common interest in addressing the current drivers of regional insecurity from terrorism, to narcotics and human smuggling, to Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing, which diminishes our food security, to natural disasters such as the Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004, which seriously endanger our populations, economies and physical infrastructure. These issues cannot be resolved unilaterally, and all South Asian States must cooperate on such things as intelligence sharing, monitoring the Indian ocean’s vast EEZs and ensuring the safety and security of its Sea Lanes of Communication. That is why the Maldives has joined regional organizations such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) which strive to resolve these issues collectively. WION: How do India and Maldives plan to work on issues such as connectivity? Ibrahim Hood: The South Asian region is one of the least integrated regions in the world. This is costing our populations. For instance, intraregional trade within South Asia is estimated to be 5% of our collective GDP compared to 25% for ASEAN countries. Reducing trade barriers between our countries could potentially raise billions of dollars for our economies. Furthermore, as I have alluded to in my answer to the previous question, South Asia faces a set of common challenges which can only be overcome by the region’s countries working together. The governments of both India and Maldives recognize these facts, which is why we have strengthened our bilateral partnerships with each other and with the rest of South Asia, and why we committed to strengthening the capacity of important regional bodies such as SAARC and IORA. WION: How do you see the Indo-Pacific concept? Do you support this concept? Ibrahim Hood: As Japan’s former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo famously expressed during his remarks while addressing India’s Lok Sabha and referring to the increasing linkages between the Indian and the Pacific Oceans, there is now a salient ‘confluence between the two seas’. The Indian and Pacific region together are now at the heart of international relations; together, they comprise a region that stretches from the West coast of the United States to the Western shores of India. Contributing to 2/3rds of the global GDP growth, home to several major world powers, six of which possess nuclear weapons and containing over half of the world’s population, the region’s centrality to global geopolitics is unquestionable. That the Indian and Pacific oceans should be recognized as a single political construct is increasingly recognized by the world’s great powers. For instance, that is why the United States has combined their previously separate Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean fleets into a single Indo-Pacific fleet. As an island nation centrally located in the Indian Ocean, sitting astride several important sea lines of communication (SLOCS) linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the Maldives must have a cohesive strategy regarding our Indo Pacific engagement, in terms of making use of the increased geopolitical attention given to this region, and making use of that to benefit our own development priorities. We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities.

Indo-Pacific engagement should benefit development priorities: Maldives President Spokesperson

<p>As I lay on a hammock over the white sand that looked like icing sugar, the sommelier of Heritance Aarah Resort walked up to me and offered some of his famous signature cocktails that would go so sparklingly well with the pristine sunset view. In the mood for some kiwi and lime as base, I asked Steve to surprise me. A gentle ocean breeze lulled me to a sunset siesta as I heard the coconut leaves rustling and murmuring along with the light roaring of the waves. Before me, the peacock hues of the Indian ocean were slowly turning shades of pink, as if a painter had dipped his brush in the azure water.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Travelers like me were itching for a beach vacation ever since the worldwide lockdown started in March due to the pandemic. So when the Maldives Tourism Board announced that tourists no longer need to go for a 14-day quarantine in the island country and can prefer to stay for a week and even hop resorts, I was game!&nbsp;<br />
<br />
One fine morning in October, I found myself on an Air India flight from Trivandrum to Male, the only flight that was operating from India then on a weekly frequency.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Flying in the New Normal</strong><br />
<br />
While I have been taking domestic flights since September, I made my post-lockdown debut of flying international only in October.<br />
<br />
One needs a mandatory Covid Negative (RT-PCR test) report done from an ICMR https://www.icmr.gov.in/ listed laboratories. To get a visa on arrival at Male Airport in Maldives, I made sure the sample was collected not before 96 hours from my first port of journey. The same process is required when you would need to enter India from an international destination.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
With the negative report in my hand, I had to web check in 24 hours before the flight and upload the test report on Maldives Government’s designated website detailing out my travel itinerary for smooth process of Visa on Arrival.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="m" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54fe6695-61ba-4526-9453-3d8161a0a66d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2826%29_14.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I boarded the flight to find myself on a window side on the left for better view of the ocean when landing. Forty minutes whisked away munching on the airline provided dry fruits and sipping on fruit juice, and the flight started descending. As I aerially surveyed the navy-blue sea turning turquoise, the flight landed at Velana International Airport in Male. The visa process was smooth with a smiling immigration officer wishing us a great vacation.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Sunny Side of Life</strong><br />
<br />
After a scenic seaplane ride that flies only at 12000 feet above the sea-level thus giving a great glimpse of the ocean and islands, we found ourselves at Heritance Aarah Resort. The seaplane lands at a jetty right at the entrance of the resort and a buggy through a wooden bridge over the ocean takes you to the reception area. There is a Covid Assistance Desk at the jetty, where the incoming luggage from the plane got sanitized, thermal screening done, and hands sanitized.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
While the staffs are mandated to wear masks all the time, it’s up to the tourists as they all have tested negative in the last four days. We threw away our masks in the air like the graduates do with their caps. The sunny side of life is real with a true ‘mask free’ vacation.<br />
<br />
This resort oozes luxury with a Maldivian traditional vigour. Ocean Villa, our home for the next four days was a traditional Maldivian thatched roof cottage over the shimmering lagoon, overlooking an infinite horizon. The resort architecture anyway offers social distancing with all facilities set apart. From the glass-bottomed bedrooms, we could spot tons of manta rays, baby sharks, clown fish and more. There was a staircase leading directly to the water, which one could enjoy privately.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
We booked ourselves on an all-inclusive package. This package includes an assigned butler, all meals including breakfast, alcohols in room, mini bar and access to all facilities except the water activities. The meal selection was crafted to give us the ultimate experience.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
We began our day with a breakfast at Ranlu. Keeping in mind the social distancing norms, all meals are to be ordered from ala carte. The lunch will be at the same restaurant and often we would cherish the sunset with a drink from Pool Bar with an infinity pool. The mixologist Steve Fernandes, a Sri Lankan descendent understood the art of mixology so well that we would wait for the evening for the magic to happen. For a traditional Maldivian meal, we also had a lavish meal at Ambula where the chefs conduct a workshop on Dhivehi cuisine, predominantly consisting of tuna fish and coconut.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="M" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72474a30-bec6-42ad-acc9-24476f729157" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2825%29_22.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<strong>Rediscovering Maldives</strong><br />
<br />
Maldives follows the unique concept of one island one resort, which really came handy during the pandemic. So, each island has only one resort without any other office buildings or markets. Basically, you get to enjoy the whole island on your own.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
After a luxurious stay at Heritance, our next destination was Kandima Maldives. While the earlier one was responsible luxury, Kandima on the other hand is more of a peppy cool hospitality on offer. A Manta Air seaplane flew us there.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
While the cottage here is Aqua Villa, meaning a modern concrete cottage with a jacuzzi overlooking the ocean. Having said that we would swim all day right under our cottage simply because the water level lower.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
It’s here, where we booked ourselves for an activity driven stay. Being one of the largest islands in Maldives, Kandima has a vast expanse to explore. The next morning, we headed on a boat for a snorkeling session. The boat takes you to the middle of the ocean where water depth is more than hundred feet. Armoured in life jackets, swimming fins and a snorkel, we dived in. The initial experience was scary with water pressure making me claustrophobic, but our instructor helped us overcome the fear. The thumb rule is never to imagine that the water level is too deep under you. For the next 60 minutes, we witnessed a parallel world underwater with turtles, sharks, and a thousand variety of fish swimming around you. And how could you miss the majestic coral reef gorgeously tinted in brown, green and red. We returned happy like a therapy session underwater. The evening was scheduled for a sunset cruise, where you ride a boat to catch the best view of the sea meeting the infinity of the sky. With snacks and drinks, we relished the sun going down turning the sky into a festival of Holi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="m" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a39e0d09-960c-4f81-8702-fd894a8f6487" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2827%29_23.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We had a slice of every activity the resort offered. Besides we also availed cycling, evening yoga and a spa session where you could hear the roar of the ocean while the expert masseuse wearing masks take you to a new dimension of comfort. It wasn’t just any stay.<br />
<br />
The resort General Manager is an Indian born, Neeraj Seth, who took us to a secret patch on the ocean. It required us to walk in water, the level ranging from knee to chin. And we reached the sand patch, which popped out of water with waves breaking on it.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On our last evening at the island, the resort had arranged for a Chinese dinner on the beach. The place was lit up with Chinese ball lights and the set up looked straight out of a fairytale. As we relished on seafood, we made a promise to return to the island nation again. While Maldives’ sand, sea and the sun make the place a heaven on earth, the warmth of the local people make the experience unforgettable.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>Hasta la Vista</em>, Maldives!<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Quick Tips:</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Is it safe to travel to Maldives?</strong><br />
<br />
Absolutely yes. Because testing is mandatory before arrival. And you get to stay in a separated island far from locals.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Is Maldives Visa on Arrival now?</strong></p>

<p>Visa on Arrival for Indian passport holders. No fee is levied for the visa. However, now you need a Covid Negative test report as well.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Places to stay:</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Kandima Maldives, Kudahuvadhoo</strong> &nbsp;- Seaplane Transfer.<br />
<br />
<strong>Anantara Dhigu, Dhigufinolhu </strong>– Yacht and Boat Transfer<br />
<br />
<strong>Heritance Aarah, Raa Atoll</strong> – Seaplane Transfer</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer does not represent the views of the WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)</em></p>


As I lay on a hammock over the white sand that looked like icing sugar, the sommelier of Heritance Aarah Resort walked up to me and offered some of his famous signature cocktails that would go so sparklingly well with the pristine sunset view.

As I lay on a hammock over the white sand that looked like icing sugar, the sommelier of Heritance Aarah Resort walked up to me and offered some of his famous signature cocktails that would go so sparklingly well with the pristine sunset view. In the mood for some kiwi and lime as base, I asked Steve to surprise me. A gentle ocean breeze lulled me to a sunset siesta as I heard the coconut leaves rustling and murmuring along with the light roaring of the waves. Before me, the peacock hues of the Indian ocean were slowly turning shades of pink, as if a painter had dipped his brush in the azure water. Travelers like me were itching for a beach vacation ever since the worldwide lockdown started in March due to the pandemic. So when the Maldives Tourism Board announced that tourists no longer need to go for a 14-day quarantine in the island country and can prefer to stay for a week and even hop resorts, I was game! One fine morning in October, I found myself on an Air India flight from Trivandrum to Male, the only flight that was operating from India then on a weekly frequency. Flying in the New Normal While I have been taking domestic flights since September, I made my post-lockdown debut of flying international only in October. One needs a mandatory Covid Negative (RT-PCR test) report done from an ICMR https://www.icmr.gov.in/ listed laboratories. To get a visa on arrival at Male Airport in Maldives, I made sure the sample was collected not before 96 hours from my first port of journey. The same process is required when you would need to enter India from an international destination. With the negative report in my hand, I had to web check in 24 hours before the flight and upload the test report on Maldives Government’s designated website detailing out my travel itinerary for smooth process of Visa on Arrival. I boarded the flight to find myself on a window side on the left for better view of the ocean when landing. Forty minutes whisked away munching on the airline provided dry fruits and sipping on fruit juice, and the flight started descending. As I aerially surveyed the navy-blue sea turning turquoise, the flight landed at Velana International Airport in Male. The visa process was smooth with a smiling immigration officer wishing us a great vacation. Sunny Side of Life After a scenic seaplane ride that flies only at 12000 feet above the sea-level thus giving a great glimpse of the ocean and islands, we found ourselves at Heritance Aarah Resort. The seaplane lands at a jetty right at the entrance of the resort and a buggy through a wooden bridge over the ocean takes you to the reception area. There is a Covid Assistance Desk at the jetty, where the incoming luggage from the plane got sanitized, thermal screening done, and hands sanitized. While the staffs are mandated to wear masks all the time, it’s up to the tourists as they all have tested negative in the last four days. We threw away our masks in the air like the graduates do with their caps. The sunny side of life is real with a true ‘mask free’ vacation. This resort oozes luxury with a Maldivian traditional vigour. Ocean Villa, our home for the next four days was a traditional Maldivian thatched roof cottage over the shimmering lagoon, overlooking an infinite horizon. The resort architecture anyway offers social distancing with all facilities set apart. From the glass-bottomed bedrooms, we could spot tons of manta rays, baby sharks, clown fish and more. There was a staircase leading directly to the water, which one could enjoy privately. We booked ourselves on an all-inclusive package. This package includes an assigned butler, all meals including breakfast, alcohols in room, mini bar and access to all facilities except the water activities. The meal selection was crafted to give us the ultimate experience. We began our day with a breakfast at Ranlu. Keeping in mind the social distancing norms, all meals are to be ordered from ala carte. The lunch will be at the same restaurant and often we would cherish the sunset with a drink from Pool Bar with an infinity pool. The mixologist Steve Fernandes, a Sri Lankan descendent understood the art of mixology so well that we would wait for the evening for the magic to happen. For a traditional Maldivian meal, we also had a lavish meal at Ambula where the chefs conduct a workshop on Dhivehi cuisine, predominantly consisting of tuna fish and coconut. Rediscovering Maldives Maldives follows the unique concept of one island one resort, which really came handy during the pandemic. So, each island has only one resort without any other office buildings or markets. Basically, you get to enjoy the whole island on your own. After a luxurious stay at Heritance, our next destination was Kandima Maldives. While the earlier one was responsible luxury, Kandima on the other hand is more of a peppy cool hospitality on offer. A Manta Air seaplane flew us there. While the cottage here is Aqua Villa, meaning a modern concrete cottage with a jacuzzi overlooking the ocean. Having said that we would swim all day right under our cottage simply because the water level lower. It’s here, where we booked ourselves for an activity driven stay. Being one of the largest islands in Maldives, Kandima has a vast expanse to explore. The next morning, we headed on a boat for a snorkeling session. The boat takes you to the middle of the ocean where water depth is more than hundred feet. Armoured in life jackets, swimming fins and a snorkel, we dived in. The initial experience was scary with water pressure making me claustrophobic, but our instructor helped us overcome the fear. The thumb rule is never to imagine that the water level is too deep under you. For the next 60 minutes, we witnessed a parallel world underwater with turtles, sharks, and a thousand variety of fish swimming around you. And how could you miss the majestic coral reef gorgeously tinted in brown, green and red. We returned happy like a therapy session underwater. The evening was scheduled for a sunset cruise, where you ride a boat to catch the best view of the sea meeting the infinity of the sky. With snacks and drinks, we relished the sun going down turning the sky into a festival of Holi. We had a slice of every activity the resort offered. Besides we also availed cycling, evening yoga and a spa session where you could hear the roar of the ocean while the expert masseuse wearing masks take you to a new dimension of comfort. It wasn’t just any stay. The resort General Manager is an Indian born, Neeraj Seth, who took us to a secret patch on the ocean. It required us to walk in water, the level ranging from knee to chin. And we reached the sand patch, which popped out of water with waves breaking on it. On our last evening at the island, the resort had arranged for a Chinese dinner on the beach. The place was lit up with Chinese ball lights and the set up looked straight out of a fairytale. As we relished on seafood, we made a promise to return to the island nation again. While Maldives’ sand, sea and the sun make the place a heaven on earth, the warmth of the local people make the experience unforgettable. Hasta la Vista, Maldives! Quick Tips: Is it safe to travel to Maldives? Absolutely yes. Because testing is mandatory before arrival. And you get to stay in a separated island far from locals. Is Maldives Visa on Arrival now? Visa on Arrival for Indian passport holders. No fee is levied for the visa. However, now you need a Covid Negative test report as well. Places to stay: Kandima Maldives, Kudahuvadhoo - Seaplane Transfer. Anantara Dhigu, Dhigufinolhu – Yacht and Boat Transfer Heritance Aarah, Raa Atoll – Seaplane Transfer (Disclaimer: The views of the writer does not represent the views of the WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

A week in Paradise: How Maldives is reopening for tourists

From Katrina Kaif to Disha Patani, celebs holidaying in the Maldives

<p>Chinese forays in South Asia are increasing, from Nepal to Pakistan but if the past is to go by, a trail of debt is sure to be expected of it. The Maldives, under former President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen, saw increase role of Chinese companies and govt, something that has shown its impact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Between 2012 and 2018, Chinese entities signed contracts between $2 to $3 billion, some at exorbitant repayment interest rates. &nbsp;This when compared to the size of the economy of the country, is not such a rosy picture, saddling it with huge debt. The true figures of Maldives debt to China are still not known, such as the magnitude of the crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sovereignty of islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu in Kaafu Atoll, Fahala in Thaa Atoll and the alarming plan to set up Joint Ocean Meteorological Observation Stations on strategically located Islands across the Maldives, would have been exchanged for debt-relief. Add to this, the rushed though Maldives China Free trade agreement in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But that chapter is closed with the new government under President Solih taking charge. The first thing New Delhi did was announce of $1.b billion in 2018 during New Maldives President's India visit. &nbsp;And since then the support has been in every way possible, from grant to currency swap to line of credit. In fact, during the covid crisis, India had reached out to Male with medical and food aid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The key area of focus has been on increasing people-to-people ties, especially with the Malè-Kochi ferry service that will also generate employment in the northern port of Kulhudhuffushi. The project was announced during PM Modi's first foreign visit abroad in his 2nd term last year and came into being earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other than that, projects include water and sewerage systems on 34 islands, Expansion of Hanimaadhoo airport and high-impact community development projects across the Maldives, gifting a Dornier aircraft for ferrying patients from remote Islands, cricket stadium and the list is endless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And from the community to megaproject, the Indian govt will fund the construction of the Greater Malè Connectivity Project (GMCP). The total cost is $500 million, of which $100 Million is under grant aid and was handed over by the Indian Foreign Secretary during his to the country earlier this month.</p>

<p>The mega project revitalizes the Maldivian economy as well, a stark comparison to the Male-Hulhule China Maldives Friendship Bridge (CMFB) built-in 2018 at the cost of around $300 Million.</p>


Chinese forays in South Asia are increasing, from Nepal to Pakistan but if the past is to go by, a trail of debt is sure to be expected of it. The Maldives, under former President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen, saw increase role of Chinese companies and govt, something that has shown its impact.

Chinese forays in South Asia are increasing, from Nepal to Pakistan but if the past is to go by, a trail of debt is sure to be expected of it. The Maldives, under former President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen, saw increase role of Chinese companies and govt, something that has shown its impact. Between 2012 and 2018, Chinese entities signed contracts between $2 to $3 billion, some at exorbitant repayment interest rates. This when compared to the size of the economy of the country, is not such a rosy picture, saddling it with huge debt. The true figures of Maldives debt to China are still not known, such as the magnitude of the crisis. The sovereignty of islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu in Kaafu Atoll, Fahala in Thaa Atoll and the alarming plan to set up Joint Ocean Meteorological Observation Stations on strategically located Islands across the Maldives, would have been exchanged for debt-relief. Add to this, the rushed though Maldives China Free trade agreement in 2017. But that chapter is closed with the new government under President Solih taking charge. The first thing New Delhi did was announce of $1.b billion in 2018 during New Maldives President's India visit. And since then the support has been in every way possible, from grant to currency swap to line of credit. In fact, during the covid crisis, India had reached out to Male with medical and food aid. The key area of focus has been on increasing people-to-people ties, especially with the Malè-Kochi ferry service that will also generate employment in the northern port of Kulhudhuffushi. The project was announced during PM Modi's first foreign visit abroad in his 2nd term last year and came into being earlier this year. Other than that, projects include water and sewerage systems on 34 islands, Expansion of Hanimaadhoo airport and high-impact community development projects across the Maldives, gifting a Dornier aircraft for ferrying patients from remote Islands, cricket stadium and the list is endless. And from the community to megaproject, the Indian govt will fund the construction of the Greater Malè Connectivity Project (GMCP). The total cost is $500 million, of which $100 Million is under grant aid and was handed over by the Indian Foreign Secretary during his to the country earlier this month. The mega project revitalizes the Maldivian economy as well, a stark comparison to the Male-Hulhule China Maldives Friendship Bridge (CMFB) built-in 2018 at the cost of around $300 Million.

India backs the Maldives to the hilt, as China's debt leaves a negative legacy

<p>During his 2-day visit to the Maldives, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla extended New Delhi's support for the country's "democratic journey" and signed a number of memorandum of understanding on infrastructure projects, including on $100 million grant for Greater Malé Connectivity Project.</p>

<p>Highlighting the shared democratic tradition, Foreign Secretary said, "both India and the Maldives have placed an abiding faith in democracy" and "India stands with the Maldives on this chosen path of democracy, to assist your democratic journey".</p>

<p>On the Indian Project, he highlighted, that "the end beneficiaries of Indian projects, big and small, are the people of the Maldives. As elected representatives of the people, we seek your support for the successful implementation of these projects which will bring development and prosperity to the Maldives and its people."</p>

<p>The Greater Malé Connectivity Project, biggest in the Indian ocean country involves the construction of a series of bridges and causeways connecting Malé to Vilingili, the industrial zone in Thilafushi, together with the newly proposed International Port at Gulhifalhu. The total length of the entire infra project is 6.7 kilometres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other MoUs include Cooperation in Sports and Youth Affairs, the establishment of 2 projects under High Impact Community Development (HICDP) scheme. These projects are the Agricultural Research Centre in Hanimaadhoo.</p>

<p>Hanimaadhoo and development of Drug Detoxification Centre, both being financed by India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the visit, FS also handed over children's park for 67 islands in the Maldives. Sports is a key component of India's diplomacy with the Maldives, and New Delhi is helping build a cricket stadium in the country. Coaching sessions have been organised for coaches and umpires and coaching of the country's 30 member men’s and 30 member women’s team will commence soon in Chennai.</p>

<p>During the visit, the foreign secretary called on President Solih, called on Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, Defence Minister Mariya Didi, Tourism minister Abdulla Mausoom and held talks with Maldives Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor.</p>


During his 2-day visit to the Maldives, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla extended New Delhi's support for the country's "democratic journey" and signed a number of memorandum of understanding on infrastructure projects, including on $100 million grant for Greater Malé Connectivity Project.

During his 2-day visit to the Maldives, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla extended New Delhi's support for the country's "democratic journey" and signed a number of memorandum of understanding on infrastructure projects, including on $100 million grant for Greater Malé Connectivity Project. Highlighting the shared democratic tradition, Foreign Secretary said, "both India and the Maldives have placed an abiding faith in democracy" and "India stands with the Maldives on this chosen path of democracy, to assist your democratic journey". On the Indian Project, he highlighted, that "the end beneficiaries of Indian projects, big and small, are the people of the Maldives. As elected representatives of the people, we seek your support for the successful implementation of these projects which will bring development and prosperity to the Maldives and its people." The Greater Malé Connectivity Project, biggest in the Indian ocean country involves the construction of a series of bridges and causeways connecting Malé to Vilingili, the industrial zone in Thilafushi, together with the newly proposed International Port at Gulhifalhu. The total length of the entire infra project is 6.7 kilometres. Other MoUs include Cooperation in Sports and Youth Affairs, the establishment of 2 projects under High Impact Community Development (HICDP) scheme. These projects are the Agricultural Research Centre in Hanimaadhoo. Hanimaadhoo and development of Drug Detoxification Centre, both being financed by India. During the visit, FS also handed over children's park for 67 islands in the Maldives. Sports is a key component of India's diplomacy with the Maldives, and New Delhi is helping build a cricket stadium in the country. Coaching sessions have been organised for coaches and umpires and coaching of the country's 30 member men’s and 30 member women’s team will commence soon in Chennai. During the visit, the foreign secretary called on President Solih, called on Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, Defence Minister Mariya Didi, Tourism minister Abdulla Mausoom and held talks with Maldives Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor.

In Male, Foreign Secretary says India stands with Maldives's democratic journey; MOUs on infra projects signed

<p>India has backed the candidature of Maldives Foreign Minister&nbsp;Abdulla Shahid&nbsp;for the President of United Nations General Assembly for 2021-22 period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking in Male, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla Said, "We feel that the Maldives should play a more prominent role in the UN. In this context, I am happy to reiterate the commitment made by our External Affairs Minister earlier during the Virtual Meeting with Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid that India will support his candidature for Presidency of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly next year."</p>

<p>The post of president of UNGA is voted on a yearly basis by all the 192 members of the core UN body. Among South Asian states, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh nationals have been UNGA President in the past. Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan nationals have not UNGA president ever.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-focus-on-development-projects-india-maldives-to-sign-mous-discuss-covid-crisis-341840" hreflang="en">With focus on development projects, India-Maldives to sign MOUs; discuss COVID crisis</a></p>

<p>The Indian Foreign Secretary explained, "With his vast diplomatic experience and leadership qualities, Foreign Minister Shahid has the best credentials to preside over the General Assembly in these tumultuous times.".</p>

<p>Adding, "his Presidency will also provide greater visibility to the Maldives. We are happy that his term will coincide with our membership of the United Nations Security Council for 2021-22. We look forward to working closely with the Maldives in the United Nations."</p>

<p>India's support to the Maldives shows New Delhi's close ties with Male. Both sides have seen increased engagement, especially with support extended by India during the COVID crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In June, Turkish Diplomat Volkan Bozkir was elected President of the forthcoming session of the UN General Assembly. India's Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit in 1953 was the first women President of the body.</p>


India has backed the candidature of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid for the President of United Nations General Assembly for 2021-22 period. Speaking in Male, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla Said, "We feel that the Maldives should play a more prominent role in the UN.

India has backed the candidature of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid for the President of United Nations General Assembly for 2021-22 period. Speaking in Male, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla Said, "We feel that the Maldives should play a more prominent role in the UN. In this context, I am happy to reiterate the commitment made by our External Affairs Minister earlier during the Virtual Meeting with Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid that India will support his candidature for Presidency of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly next year." The post of president of UNGA is voted on a yearly basis by all the 192 members of the core UN body. Among South Asian states, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh nationals have been UNGA President in the past. Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan nationals have not UNGA president ever. Also read: With focus on development projects, India-Maldives to sign MOUs; discuss COVID crisis The Indian Foreign Secretary explained, "With his vast diplomatic experience and leadership qualities, Foreign Minister Shahid has the best credentials to preside over the General Assembly in these tumultuous times.". Adding, "his Presidency will also provide greater visibility to the Maldives. We are happy that his term will coincide with our membership of the United Nations Security Council for 2021-22. We look forward to working closely with the Maldives in the United Nations." India's support to the Maldives shows New Delhi's close ties with Male. Both sides have seen increased engagement, especially with support extended by India during the COVID crisis. In June, Turkish Diplomat Volkan Bozkir was elected President of the forthcoming session of the UN General Assembly. India's Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit in 1953 was the first women President of the body.

India backs Maldives' Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid's candidature for UNGA president

<p>32 years ago, this week, India launched an Operation Cactus to help the Maldives as the country faced its biggest challenge - a coup launched by mercenaries. The operation forever etched in the India Maldives history of close cooperation shows how Indian Navy played a significant role, especially when it comes to security and stability of the Indian Ocean region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the intervening night of 2nd and 3rd November 1988 around 200 to 300 armed mercenaries landed in the country's capital capturing key installations. The then President of Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had requested for help from New Delhi and the then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Army's para brigade brought on IL 76 immediately brought things under control in the Indian ocean Island but it was the mid-ocean chase and rescue that was the most challenging part of the operation. The mercenaries, led by the leader&nbsp;Abdulla Luthufee&nbsp;fled on vessel MV Progress light along with hostages including a Maldivian govt minister.&nbsp; Indian navy ship--training ship Tir and Frigate Godavari were diverted to the country.The commanding officer of Godavari was the CTF-- Commander Task Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other than them,&nbsp;Indian Navy ships Betwa, Rajput, Ranjit, Gomati, Trishul, Nilgiri, Kumbhir, Cheetah and fleet tanker Deepak were also sailed towards the Maldives. 24x7 maritime reconnaissance aircraft (MR) air-patrols commenced.</p>

<p>Soon after midnight of 5/6th November, MV Progress light was given a final warning but no heed was paid by the fleeing mercenaries. The 4 inch, 57 mm and 30 mm guns of Godavari and Betwa then raked the vessel, causing a massive fire. A Naval boarding party brought the hostages to INS Godavari and apprehended the mercenaries. MV Progress light sank on 7th November, 56 miles south west of Colombo.</p>

<p>New Delhi was closely monitoring the situation and at the war room at a message reached the Prime Minister that read: "ALL HOSTAGES RESCUED. MERCENARIES CAPTURED" bringing a sigh of relief to many in both the countries. On 8th November, recused hostages were handed over to President Gayoom in a formal ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The developments had a global impact, with TIME magazine cover of 3rd April 1989 featuring INS Godavari with a caption "Super India--The Next Military power". Leaders of the US and UK had also lauded New Delhi's role.</p>

<p>One of the impact of the development was close alignment on the security understanding between Indian and Maldives. India has been helping in capacity and capability development of the Maldivian armed forces and since then thousands of Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) personnel have been trained in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to know, the present Chief of Defence Force of MNDF, Major General Abdulla Shamaal, is a graduate of DSSC, Wellington (Tamil Nadu), while his predecessors were graduates of NDC, New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The invasion by mercenaries on 3 November 1988 also prompted the Maldives to enhance their maritime surveillance capabilities. For this Indian Government provided MNDF with ships, vehicles, helicopters, coastal radars, arms, ammunition and earlier this year, a Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft.</p>

<p>To remember the event in the country's history, every 3 November MNDF personnel mark Nasruge Dhuvas or ‘Victory Day’ and remember their fallen comrades at a special memorial where an RPG--rocket-propelled grenade was fired by the mercenaries breaching the MNDF HQ in Bandaara Koshi, Male in 1988.</p>


32 years ago, this week, India launched an Operation Cactus to help the Maldives as the country faced its biggest challenge - a coup launched by mercenaries. The operation forever etched in the India Maldives history of close cooperation shows how Indian Navy played a significant role, especially when it comes to security and stability of the Indian Ocean region.

32 years ago, this week, India launched an Operation Cactus to help the Maldives as the country faced its biggest challenge - a coup launched by mercenaries. The operation forever etched in the India Maldives history of close cooperation shows how Indian Navy played a significant role, especially when it comes to security and stability of the Indian Ocean region. On the intervening night of 2nd and 3rd November 1988 around 200 to 300 armed mercenaries landed in the country's capital capturing key installations. The then President of Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had requested for help from New Delhi and the then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Indian Army's para brigade brought on IL 76 immediately brought things under control in the Indian ocean Island but it was the mid-ocean chase and rescue that was the most challenging part of the operation. The mercenaries, led by the leader Abdulla Luthufee fled on vessel MV Progress light along with hostages including a Maldivian govt minister. Indian navy ship--training ship Tir and Frigate Godavari were diverted to the country.The commanding officer of Godavari was the CTF-- Commander Task Force. Other than them, Indian Navy ships Betwa, Rajput, Ranjit, Gomati, Trishul, Nilgiri, Kumbhir, Cheetah and fleet tanker Deepak were also sailed towards the Maldives. 24x7 maritime reconnaissance aircraft (MR) air-patrols commenced. Soon after midnight of 5/6th November, MV Progress light was given a final warning but no heed was paid by the fleeing mercenaries. The 4 inch, 57 mm and 30 mm guns of Godavari and Betwa then raked the vessel, causing a massive fire. A Naval boarding party brought the hostages to INS Godavari and apprehended the mercenaries. MV Progress light sank on 7th November, 56 miles south west of Colombo. New Delhi was closely monitoring the situation and at the war room at a message reached the Prime Minister that read: "ALL HOSTAGES RESCUED. MERCENARIES CAPTURED" bringing a sigh of relief to many in both the countries. On 8th November, recused hostages were handed over to President Gayoom in a formal ceremony. The developments had a global impact, with TIME magazine cover of 3rd April 1989 featuring INS Godavari with a caption "Super India--The Next Military power". Leaders of the US and UK had also lauded New Delhi's role. One of the impact of the development was close alignment on the security understanding between Indian and Maldives. India has been helping in capacity and capability development of the Maldivian armed forces and since then thousands of Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) personnel have been trained in India. It will be interesting to know, the present Chief of Defence Force of MNDF, Major General Abdulla Shamaal, is a graduate of DSSC, Wellington (Tamil Nadu), while his predecessors were graduates of NDC, New Delhi. The invasion by mercenaries on 3 November 1988 also prompted the Maldives to enhance their maritime surveillance capabilities. For this Indian Government provided MNDF with ships, vehicles, helicopters, coastal radars, arms, ammunition and earlier this year, a Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft. To remember the event in the country's history, every 3 November MNDF personnel mark Nasruge Dhuvas or ‘Victory Day’ and remember their fallen comrades at a special memorial where an RPG--rocket-propelled grenade was fired by the mercenaries breaching the MNDF HQ in Bandaara Koshi, Male in 1988.

Operation Cactus: How India helped the Maldives in November, 1988

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took a firm stance against China on Wednesday (October 28) as he met Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male.

Mike Pompeo: China brought lawlessness to Maldives

<p>US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Sri Lanka and the Maldives this month, officials of both Indian Ocean nations said on Tuesday, as Washington seeks to counter China's growing influence in the region.</p>

<p>Pompeo will hold two-way talks in Colombo on October&nbsp;28, a spokesman for Sri Lanka's foreign ministry said but gave no details.</p>

<p>Two people familiar with arrangements for the trip said Pompeo was likely to stop in the Maldives' capital of Male for several hours on the same day.</p>

<p>"Incoming visits of official foreign delegations will be announced once a visit is scheduled and confirmed," the Maldives' foreign ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>China's top diplomat, Yang Jiechi, visited Colombo this month. In recent years, Beijing has increasingly provided financing and construction for critical infrastructure in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, alarming traditional regional power India.</p>

<p>Last week, an Indian government source said Pompeo was also set to visit New Delhi this month, along with Defense Secretary Mark Esper, for talks with Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.</p>


US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Sri Lanka and the Maldives this month, officials of both Indian Ocean nations said on Tuesday, as Washington seeks to counter China's growing influence in the region.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Sri Lanka and the Maldives this month, officials of both Indian Ocean nations said on Tuesday, as Washington seeks to counter China's growing influence in the region. Pompeo will hold two-way talks in Colombo on October 28, a spokesman for Sri Lanka's foreign ministry said but gave no details. Two people familiar with arrangements for the trip said Pompeo was likely to stop in the Maldives' capital of Male for several hours on the same day. "Incoming visits of official foreign delegations will be announced once a visit is scheduled and confirmed," the Maldives' foreign ministry said in a statement. China's top diplomat, Yang Jiechi, visited Colombo this month. In recent years, Beijing has increasingly provided financing and construction for critical infrastructure in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, alarming traditional regional power India. Last week, an Indian government source said Pompeo was also set to visit New Delhi this month, along with Defense Secretary Mark Esper, for talks with Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Pompeo to visit Sri Lanka and Maldives as China threat looms

<p>India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is expected to visit the Maldives on November 10. This will be his third visit outside the country, after visits to Bangladesh and Myanmar amid the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>Foreign ministers of both the countries, earlier this year held virtual talks after which a slew of initiatives were announced. Before the pandemic impacted travel, a number of high-level visits between the two countries have taken place -- with PM Modi last year visiting the Indian Ocean island country that was his first foreign visit in his second term in office.</p>

<p>Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India has reached out to Maldives in a number of ways including by sending medicines, rapid response team and extended US $250 million loans to deal with the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>New Delhi has also announced support to the country's largest infrastructure project -- Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP) by providing a funding of US $500 million that will increase connectivity within the country. The US $500-financial package consists of a grant of US$-100 million and a new Line of Credit of US $400 million.</p>


India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is expected to visit the Maldives on November 10. This will be his third visit outside the country, after visits to Bangladesh and Myanmar amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is expected to visit the Maldives on November 10. This will be his third visit outside the country, after visits to Bangladesh and Myanmar amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Foreign ministers of both the countries, earlier this year held virtual talks after which a slew of initiatives were announced. Before the pandemic impacted travel, a number of high-level visits between the two countries have taken place -- with PM Modi last year visiting the Indian Ocean island country that was his first foreign visit in his second term in office. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India has reached out to Maldives in a number of ways including by sending medicines, rapid response team and extended US $250 million loans to deal with the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. New Delhi has also announced support to the country's largest infrastructure project -- Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP) by providing a funding of US $500 million that will increase connectivity within the country. The US $500-financial package consists of a grant of US$-100 million and a new Line of Credit of US $400 million.

Indian Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to visit Maldives on November 10

<p>Maldives former vice president Ahmed Adeeb has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to graft, money laundering and abuse of power.</p>

<p>Adeeb was a close ally of ex-president Abdulla Yameen until Adeeb was jailed for allegedly trying to assassinate the strongman former ruler with a bomb on board his yacht in 2015.</p>

<p>The Criminal Court on Tuesday&nbsp;also imposed a fine of two million rufiyaa ($129,000) for Adeeb's role in syphoning money from the state tourism promoter during the former administration. He was accused of causing a loss of about $260 million to the state in leasing islets for resort development and receiving kickbacks from tourism companies.</p>

<p>Adeeb's then boss, Yameen, is already serving a five-year prison sentence after being found guilty in November of money laundering during his tenure between 2013 and 2018.</p>

<p>In July, Adeeb had been cleared of the charges by the Criminal Court, but prosecutors appealed to the High Court which ordered a fresh trial. He&nbsp;was initially tourism minister and promoted to vice president by Yameen, but the two later fell out.</p>

<p>Adeeb was jailed for 15 years after being accused of trying to assassinate Yameen following a September 2015 explosion aboard the presidential yacht.</p>

<p>However, he was cleared of the attempted assassination charge after Yameen's defeat at the 2018 re-election bid.</p>

<p>Adeeb left the country illegally in August last year but was arrested in neighbouring India and returned to the archipelago to face the latest corruption charges.</p>

<p>During his five-year term, Yameen had all his political rivals either locked up or forced into exile.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from AFP)</strong></em></p>


Maldives former vice president Ahmed Adeeb has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to graft, money laundering and abuse of power. Adeeb was a close ally of ex-president Abdulla Yameen until Adeeb was jailed for allegedly trying to assassinate the strongman former ruler with a bomb on board his yacht in 2015.

Maldives former vice president Ahmed Adeeb has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to graft, money laundering and abuse of power. Adeeb was a close ally of ex-president Abdulla Yameen until Adeeb was jailed for allegedly trying to assassinate the strongman former ruler with a bomb on board his yacht in 2015. The Criminal Court on Tuesday also imposed a fine of two million rufiyaa ($129,000) for Adeeb's role in syphoning money from the state tourism promoter during the former administration. He was accused of causing a loss of about $260 million to the state in leasing islets for resort development and receiving kickbacks from tourism companies. Adeeb's then boss, Yameen, is already serving a five-year prison sentence after being found guilty in November of money laundering during his tenure between 2013 and 2018. In July, Adeeb had been cleared of the charges by the Criminal Court, but prosecutors appealed to the High Court which ordered a fresh trial. He was initially tourism minister and promoted to vice president by Yameen, but the two later fell out. Adeeb was jailed for 15 years after being accused of trying to assassinate Yameen following a September 2015 explosion aboard the presidential yacht. However, he was cleared of the attempted assassination charge after Yameen's defeat at the 2018 re-election bid. Adeeb left the country illegally in August last year but was arrested in neighbouring India and returned to the archipelago to face the latest corruption charges. During his five-year term, Yameen had all his political rivals either locked up or forced into exile. (with inputs from AFP)

Maldives former vice president gets 20 years for graft

maldives-0

Maldives, News on Maldives, stories on Maldives, articles on Maldives, Maldives stories at Wion, Maldives news, Maldives latest news

maldives 0

Janhvi Kapoor stuns in beach wear, shares stunning glimpses of Maldives' sunset