Observers and students of Maldives’ foreign relations may judge 2024 as an exceptionally important year. If President Mohamed Muizzu’s official voyage to China in January revealed a ‘pivot to China,’ his five-day state visit to India in October witnessed a notable move to bring significant improvement in ties with its closest neighbour. The overall message was clear: the small Indian Ocean state plans to carefully balance its relations with the two major Asian powers, thereby deriving maximum benefit for itself. The former mayor of Male, who ascended to the highest office riding on the ‘India Out’ campaign, has emerged as the President of Maldives, now well-versed in the art of practicing diversification in foreign policy.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:152,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1842}">A rollercoaster ride &nbsp;</h2>

Before and soon after his election, Mr. Muizzu made a big issue about his demand for India to withdraw its 75 defence personnel stationed in Maldives. (They were there because of an agreement with the previous government to operate aviation platforms for undertaking humanitarian missions). But ironically enough, the president’s protocol showed little hesitation in accepting New Delhi’s gracious offer for the presidential party to travel in an Indian Air Force plane on the state visit to India.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-in-india-will-never-do-anything-that-undermines-indias-security-says-muizzu-765031">Maldives president India visit: 'Will never do anything that undermines India's security', says Muizzu</a>

When asked about the India-Maldives relationship taking a rollercoaster ride in the early months of his presidency, President Muizzu fortunately remembered his country’s history with India. “The historical relationship is intertwined like the roots of a tree, built on centuries of exchanges and values shared,” he said. Finally, he seemed to be on the same page as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who noted this week that India is Maldives’ “closest neighbour and a steadfast friend,” pointing out that Maldives holds a significant place in both our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the ‘SAGAR’ vision. Maldives’ leaders seem to have internalized this lesson, which is the principal reason why the visit produced positive results.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:434,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2124}">The visit’s outcome&nbsp;</h2>

A close look at the agreements concluded during the visit and remarks made by the two sides reveals a fundamental complementarity: India agreed to show ample generosity by expanding its economic and development cooperation, whereas Maldives promised to be fully sensitive and respectful of India’s security interests and concerns in the Indian Ocean region. This mutuality of interest will continue to be the principal driver in implementing the agreed vision for the ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,’ which was crafted and announced at the beginning of the presidential visit. In fact, prior to the visit, Muizzu spoke of his commitment, in an interview with a leading Indian daily, that Maldives’ actions do not compromise the security and stability of the region, adding significantly, “…we are confident that our engagements with other nations will not undermine India’s security interests.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:83,&quot;y&quot;:630,&quot;w&quot;:608,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:116,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2320}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-jaishankar-meets-president-muizzu-as-maldives-attempts-to-mend-bilateral-ties-765003">India's EAM Jaishankar meets President Muizzu as Maldives attempts to mend bilateral ties</a>

Experts have rated the section of the vision document on defence and security cooperation as substantive and forward-looking. Wide-ranging collaboration with the country’s defence and police forces, as well as the Ministry of Defence, has been spelt out formally. Another component of maritime security cooperation is Maldives’ optimal participation in the Columbo Security Conclave (CSC). The recent signing of the Charter of the CSC, with India and Maldives as founding members, paves the way for closer cooperation to achieve “a safe, secure and peaceful Indian Ocean.”&nbsp;

Other sections of the above-cited document deal with financial and economic cooperation and India’s assurance to extend assistance in diverse areas such as health, energy, capacity, building, and digital cooperation. The Maldives side was particularly pleased with New Delhi‘s decision to extend support in the form of $400 million and ₹30 billion as part of a bilateral currency swap agreement, which will help the nation deal with its current financial challenges. The two sides agreed to initiate discussions to conclude a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) focusing on trade in goods and services. Above all, people-to-people relations and political ties will be further strengthened through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two parliaments, which will promote tourism and open new consulates in Bengaluru and Addu. An innovative way to enhance the flow of Indian tourists to Maldives is to charm Bollywood moguls. President Muizzu spent some quality time interacting with film stars and directors in Mumbai on 8 October. Whether this move will succeed remains to be seen.&nbsp;

Other notable features of the visit were the launch of the RuPay Card in Maldives, the launch of an airport runway, the handing over of 700 social housing units built with Indian assistance, and the signing of five MOUs pertaining to specific areas of cooperation. &nbsp;

President Muizzu revealed that after briefing PM Modi about Maldives' 20-year national development plan, he requested India’s support to achieve the target of Maldives becoming a developed country by 2040. PM Modi assured him of India’s support.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1083,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2773}">Why the turnaround?&nbsp;</h2>

The Muizzu government’s India policy took several months to reach the present positive stage. This change is attributable to at least four factors.&nbsp;

One, internal dynamics should be factored in. India has amassed considerable goodwill and political capital within the country through extensive cooperation stretching to several decades. This was reflected in the pro-India constituency – and the people at large – exerting sufficient pressure on the government to seek a meaningful reconciliation with New Delhi. &nbsp;

Two, expectations from China may not have been met sufficiently because the distance – and not just in geographic terms – really matters. &nbsp;

Three, India’s patient and pragmatic handling of the relationship in recent months and its studied refusal to respond to provocations by Maldives officials were noteworthy. Besides the PM’s guidance, the leadership of the Ministry of External Affairs and the quiet but effective work done by our High Commission in Male deserve full credit for this achievement. 
 
Finally, friendly advice and suggestions from India’s Quad partners – the US, Japan, and Australia – seem to have convinced Maldives that diversified cooperation rather than overdependence on a single partner is the best way to protect and promote its interests.&nbsp;

A new chapter has opened in India-Maldives relations. The visit should enable the bilateral relationship “to scale new heights.” But much work awaits the concerned officials and diplomats, with the Muizzu-Modi parleys “building on the strong and extensive foundation of relations and charting out new frontiers for engagement,” as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri put it. Maldives is a small country, but also an important strategic partner for India. It deserves more sustained attention from the Indian polity. &nbsp;

To begin with, Indian media outlets need to cover developments in that country on a more regular basis. The country’s think tank community too must develop deeper expertise about Maldives and what drives its policy in social, psychological, economic, political and strategic terms. Interested think tanks can start their work immediately by analyzing and assessing the Muizzu visit from bilateral and regional perspectives and the new vision document. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi’s likely visit to Maldives in 2025 will be the next major milestone in this developing story.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Observers and students of Maldives’ foreign relations may judge 2024 as an exceptionally important year. If President Mohamed Muizzu’s official voyage to China in January revealed a ‘pivot to China,’ his five-day state visit to India in October witnessed a notable move to bring significant improvement in ties with its closest neighbour.

Observers and students of Maldives’ foreign relations may judge 2024 as an exceptionally important year. If President Mohamed Muizzu’s official voyage to China in January revealed a ‘pivot to China,’ his five-day state visit to India in October witnessed a notable move to bring significant improvement in ties with its closest neighbour. The overall message was clear: the small Indian Ocean state plans to carefully balance its relations with the two major Asian powers, thereby deriving maximum benefit for itself. The former mayor of Male, who ascended to the highest office riding on the ‘India Out’ campaign, has emerged as the President of Maldives, now well-versed in the art of practicing diversification in foreign policy. A rollercoaster ride Before and soon after his election, Mr. Muizzu made a big issue about his demand for India to withdraw its 75 defence personnel stationed in Maldives. (They were there because of an agreement with the previous government to operate aviation platforms for undertaking humanitarian missions). But ironically enough, the president’s protocol showed little hesitation in accepting New Delhi’s gracious offer for the presidential party to travel in an Indian Air Force plane on the state visit to India. Also read | Maldives president India visit: 'Will never do anything that undermines India's security', says Muizzu When asked about the India-Maldives relationship taking a rollercoaster ride in the early months of his presidency, President Muizzu fortunately remembered his country’s history with India. “The historical relationship is intertwined like the roots of a tree, built on centuries of exchanges and values shared,” he said. Finally, he seemed to be on the same page as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who noted this week that India is Maldives’ “closest neighbour and a steadfast friend,” pointing out that Maldives holds a significant place in both our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the ‘SAGAR’ vision. Maldives’ leaders seem to have internalized this lesson, which is the principal reason why the visit produced positive results. The visit’s outcome A close look at the agreements concluded during the visit and remarks made by the two sides reveals a fundamental complementarity: India agreed to show ample generosity by expanding its economic and development cooperation, whereas Maldives promised to be fully sensitive and respectful of India’s security interests and concerns in the Indian Ocean region. This mutuality of interest will continue to be the principal driver in implementing the agreed vision for the ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,’ which was crafted and announced at the beginning of the presidential visit. In fact, prior to the visit, Muizzu spoke of his commitment, in an interview with a leading Indian daily, that Maldives’ actions do not compromise the security and stability of the region, adding significantly, “…we are confident that our engagements with other nations will not undermine India’s security interests.” Also read | India's EAM Jaishankar meets President Muizzu as Maldives attempts to mend bilateral ties Experts have rated the section of the vision document on defence and security cooperation as substantive and forward-looking. Wide-ranging collaboration with the country’s defence and police forces, as well as the Ministry of Defence, has been spelt out formally. Another component of maritime security cooperation is Maldives’ optimal participation in the Columbo Security Conclave (CSC). The recent signing of the Charter of the CSC, with India and Maldives as founding members, paves the way for closer cooperation to achieve “a safe, secure and peaceful Indian Ocean.” Other sections of the above-cited document deal with financial and economic cooperation and India’s assurance to extend assistance in diverse areas such as health, energy, capacity, building, and digital cooperation. The Maldives side was particularly pleased with New Delhi‘s decision to extend support in the form of $400 million and ₹30 billion as part of a bilateral currency swap agreement, which will help the nation deal with its current financial challenges. The two sides agreed to initiate discussions to conclude a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) focusing on trade in goods and services. Above all, people-to-people relations and political ties will be further strengthened through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two parliaments, which will promote tourism and open new consulates in Bengaluru and Addu. An innovative way to enhance the flow of Indian tourists to Maldives is to charm Bollywood moguls. President Muizzu spent some quality time interacting with film stars and directors in Mumbai on 8 October. Whether this move will succeed remains to be seen. Other notable features of the visit were the launch of the RuPay Card in Maldives, the launch of an airport runway, the handing over of 700 social housing units built with Indian assistance, and the signing of five MOUs pertaining to specific areas of cooperation. President Muizzu revealed that after briefing PM Modi about Maldives' 20-year national development plan, he requested India’s support to achieve the target of Maldives becoming a developed country by 2040. PM Modi assured him of India’s support. Why the turnaround? The Muizzu government’s India policy took several months to reach the present positive stage. This change is attributable to at least four factors. One, internal dynamics should be factored in. India has amassed considerable goodwill and political capital within the country through extensive cooperation stretching to several decades. This was reflected in the pro-India constituency – and the people at large – exerting sufficient pressure on the government to seek a meaningful reconciliation with New Delhi. Two, expectations from China may not have been met sufficiently because the distance – and not just in geographic terms – really matters. Three, India’s patient and pragmatic handling of the relationship in recent months and its studied refusal to respond to provocations by Maldives officials were noteworthy. Besides the PM’s guidance, the leadership of the Ministry of External Affairs and the quiet but effective work done by our High Commission in Male deserve full credit for this achievement. Finally, friendly advice and suggestions from India’s Quad partners – the US, Japan, and Australia – seem to have convinced Maldives that diversified cooperation rather than overdependence on a single partner is the best way to protect and promote its interests. A new chapter has opened in India-Maldives relations. The visit should enable the bilateral relationship “to scale new heights.” But much work awaits the concerned officials and diplomats, with the Muizzu-Modi parleys “building on the strong and extensive foundation of relations and charting out new frontiers for engagement,” as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri put it. Maldives is a small country, but also an important strategic partner for India. It deserves more sustained attention from the Indian polity. To begin with, Indian media outlets need to cover developments in that country on a more regular basis. The country’s think tank community too must develop deeper expertise about Maldives and what drives its policy in social, psychological, economic, political and strategic terms. Interested think tanks can start their work immediately by analyzing and assessing the Muizzu visit from bilateral and regional perspectives and the new vision document. Prime Minister Modi’s likely visit to Maldives in 2025 will be the next major milestone in this developing story.

Now, Maldives turns to India 

The groundbreaking ceremony of Maldives' biggest infrastructure project, the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) will be done during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's visit to India next week.

The groundbreaking ceremony of Maldives' biggest infrastructure project, the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) will be done during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's visit to India next week. The project is supported by New Delhi with a grant of $100 million and a $400 million line of credit, totalling $500 million.Under the project, a 6.74 kilometres long bridge and causeway link will be built that will connect the national capital Male with three adjoining islands viz. Villingli, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. The project was first discussed during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the country in September 2019. The agreement for the project was signed between AFCONS and Maldives government last year and the mega infrastructure is expected to be completed within two years. Read More: India, Maldives to sign pact on mega Greater Malé Connectivity Project An opportunity to lend further momentum to the relations: EAM Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi informed about the visit last week by stating: "The visit will provide an opportunity for the two leaders to review the progress made in this wide-ranging partnership and impart direction to the two sides that will lend further momentum to this strong partnership that we have." During the visit, focus will also be on other major projects that India is helping the Maldives government build. Reportedly, India is supporting 45 projects in the country with grant assistance of $16.88 million or 260 million Maldivian rufiyaas. Of these 45 projects, 17 have been completed and inaugurated already. These projects cover diverse areas of socio-economic development including tourism, sustainable development, education, fisheries, healthcare, local infrastructure, sports & youth development. The projects are identified by the Maldivian government based on its development priorities and are implemented by local councils or concerned ministries. India has replaced China Before GMCP, Sinamalé Bridge, built by the Chinese was the biggest infrastructure project in the Maldives. The bridge is 1.39 km long and connects the capital city of Male with Hulhule. The construction of the bridge was started in 2014 under Abdulla Yameen, the then President who was close to Beijing. Currently, Yameen is leading an anti-India campaign in the country. The last state visit of Solih was in December 2018, just a month after taking charge. During that visit, India announced a $1.4 billion economic package which included support for building ports, airport expansion, reclamation and cricket stadiums amongst other projects. Cricket diplomacy has been a key component of the ties as India is training members of the Maldives cricket team. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Groundbreaking ceremony of Maldives biggest infra project to be done during Prez Solih's Delhi visit

India and Maldives on Monday signed seven&nbsp;pacts for development of new projects in areas like health, sports, heritage conservation and youth centers. The projects were announced during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the country last month. The new projects will be funded under the Indian High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) grant assistance scheme.

The MoUs were signed between Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Indian high commissioner to Maldives Munu Mahawar. The ceremony was attended by respective Members of Parliament, Island Councils, senior officials from the Government of Maldives and the High Commission of India.

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Speaking at the ceremony, Maldives foreign minister expressed his "profound gratitude to the Indian government for the key role India plays in promoting socio-economic development of Maldives", a Maldives government statement said. With these seven&nbsp;projects, total number of India High Impact Community Development Project in the Indian ocean Island country has reached to 27. The estimated cost of the seven&nbsp;projects is around Rs 132 million and they are spread across seven&nbsp;Atolls of the Maldives – Haa Dhaalu, Noonu, Kaafu, Alif Dhaalu, Thaa, Gaafu Alifu and Seenu.

The seven&nbsp;projects are, Audiology Unit in Kulhudhuffushi hospital, Site museums in N. Landhoo Maabudhuge, and in Th. Dhiyamigilli Ganduvaru, Multi-sports complex in N. Manadhoo, Prosthetics &amp; Orthotics facility in Hulhumale’ hospital, Youth centre in A.Dh. Dhigurah, Youth centre in Ga. Gemanafushi and Mental health unit in Addu Equatorial hospital. Indian envoy to Maldives Munu Mahawar in a tweet said, "Development cooperation is the central pillar of India-Maldives partnership and we remain committed to continue strengthening it."

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Development cooperation is the central pillar of India-Maldives partnership and we remain committed to continue strengthening it. <a href="https://t.co/YvUrBx6bx3">https://t.co/YvUrBx6bx3</a>
— Amb Munu Mahawar (@AmbMunu) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbMunu/status/1516058071398641668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Highlighting how these projects are, "designed as per the priorities of island communities", the Indian high commission in a statement said, "most of them are implemented by local councils and enhance their capacities in project execution. India looks forward to the early implementation of all" the projects.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit.

EAM in a tweet said, "Glad to sign with Defence Minister Mariya Didi the UTF Harbour Project agreement. Will strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. Partners in development, partners in security."

Work on the project will be completed in two&nbsp;phases and expected to be completed in three&nbsp;years. The pact aims to "develop, support and maintain" the harbour and is part of the request made by the Maldivian government in April 2013 to the Indian government to enhance the capability of the Maldivian Defence forces.

Requests were also sent by Male to Delhi in October 2015, March 2016. The coast guard pact was also key during April 2016 Action Plan for Defence Cooperation under the former Yameen government of Maldives. The terms of reference for the project were discussed during the joint staff talks held in June 2018, January 2019 and June 2019 and September 2019.

During the visit, New Delhi also extended a $50 million dollar line of credit (LOC) agreement for defence projects. The LOC for defence will be used as per priorities of govt of Maldives to source equipment or projects from India like any other civilian LOCs.

India and Maldives have close engagement on defence and security. India is supporting the Maldives in one of the key issues--maritime surveillance of its large Exclusive Economic Zone in the Indian ocean. Last year, India sent Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) that is being used in Maritime &amp; exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster and Medical Relief.

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit.

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit. EAM in a tweet said, "Glad to sign with Defence Minister Mariya Didi the UTF Harbour Project agreement. Will strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. Partners in development, partners in security." Work on the project will be completed in two phases and expected to be completed in three years. The pact aims to "develop, support and maintain" the harbour and is part of the request made by the Maldivian government in April 2013 to the Indian government to enhance the capability of the Maldivian Defence forces. Requests were also sent by Male to Delhi in October 2015, March 2016. The coast guard pact was also key during April 2016 Action Plan for Defence Cooperation under the former Yameen government of Maldives. The terms of reference for the project were discussed during the joint staff talks held in June 2018, January 2019 and June 2019 and September 2019. During the visit, New Delhi also extended a $50 million dollar line of credit (LOC) agreement for defence projects. The LOC for defence will be used as per priorities of govt of Maldives to source equipment or projects from India like any other civilian LOCs. India and Maldives have close engagement on defence and security. India is supporting the Maldives in one of the key issues--maritime surveillance of its large Exclusive Economic Zone in the Indian ocean. Last year, India sent Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) that is being used in Maritime & exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster and Medical Relief.

India, Maldives sign pact on development of Coast Guard Harbour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Foreign Minister of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid will arrive today on a four-day visit, with an aim to repair the bilateral ties which came under severe strain during the previous government in the island nation.

Officials said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will hold extensive talks with Mr Shahid on Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended the swearing-in ceremony of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on November 17 in Male.

During their meeting, PM Modi and Mohamed Solih vowed to renew close ties and friendship between the two countries and agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Mohamed Solih, as the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate, had surprisingly defeated strongman Abdulla Yameen in the presidential election held on September 23.

India-Maldives ties came under strain under &nbsp;Abdulla Yameen who was perceived to be close to China. Some decisions by &nbsp;Abdulla Yameen including imposition of restrictions on work visas for Indians and signing of a new Free Trade Agreement with Beijing also did not go down well with New Delhi.

Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated further after &nbsp;Abdulla Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 this year.

India had criticised his decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days.

Foreign Minister of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid will arrive today on a four-day visit, with an aim to repair the bilateral ties which came under severe strain during the previous government in the island nation.

Foreign Minister of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid will arrive today on a four-day visit, with an aim to repair the bilateral ties which came under severe strain during the previous government in the island nation. Officials said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will hold extensive talks with Mr Shahid on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended the swearing-in ceremony of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on November 17 in Male. During their meeting, PM Modi and Mohamed Solih vowed to renew close ties and friendship between the two countries and agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region. Mohamed Solih, as the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate, had surprisingly defeated strongman Abdulla Yameen in the presidential election held on September 23. India-Maldives ties came under strain under Abdulla Yameen who was perceived to be close to China. Some decisions by Abdulla Yameen including imposition of restrictions on work visas for Indians and signing of a new Free Trade Agreement with Beijing also did not go down well with New Delhi. Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated further after Abdulla Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 this year. India had criticised his decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days.

Maldivian foreign minister to visit India today

A tussle for dominance has ended in Maldives, at least for the time being.&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/solih-sworn-in-as-maldives-president-replacing-pro-china-leader-177868"> inaugurated on Saturday</a> as the new president of the country after the opposition unity dislodged the&nbsp;pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen in September elections.

With <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-modi-meets-maldives-president-ibrahim-mohamed-solih-in-male-177884">PM Modi</a> as the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration ceremony of the new president Mohd Solih in the Maldives - and with the defeat of Abdulla Yameen -- India is hoping to regain lost ground.

Solih has promised an 'India first policy' and his team is reviewing millions of dollars worth of investment from China - as well as debt and how to restructure it to reduce its dependence on the Chinese.

But while he plans to tighten his grip, he also hopes to get at least 200 to 300 million from friendly nations - like India, Saudi Arabia, and the US to pay back China it's whopping US 1.5 billion of debt - which is more than a quarter of the country's gross domestic product.

How will the Maldives pay back the debt? And until its paid, are the Chinese very much the stakeholder?

This year alone - the Chinese have completed a mile-long China-Maldives friendship bridge Which connects the airport on one island to the capital on another.

The Chinese are also expanding the airport itself. The airport development is an especially sore point with India after the Maldivian government canceled a US $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing.&nbsp;

The Chinese also own many lagoons and islands with the Maldives archipelago

It could take months to rid the Maldives of the Chinese influence and many of these deals are enveloped in secrecy.

But India is willing to help and has in the past provided a US $75 million credit line of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration.

There is also currency swap agreement between the two nations and defence deals which have seen several recent setbacks under the Yameen administration who withdrew from agreements and sent back Indian military helicopters as well.

So India will hope to get back some of those defense agreements and access to key ports and islands which are strategically important to India.

But China remains a big player. Which means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel anytime soon.

A tussle for dominance has ended in Maldives, at least for the time being. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was inaugurated on Saturday as the new president of the country after the opposition unity dislodged the pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen in September elections.

A tussle for dominance has ended in Maldives, at least for the time being. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was inaugurated on Saturday as the new president of the country after the opposition unity dislodged the pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen in September elections. With PM Modi as the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration ceremony of the new president Mohd Solih in the Maldives - and with the defeat of Abdulla Yameen -- India is hoping to regain lost ground. Solih has promised an 'India first policy' and his team is reviewing millions of dollars worth of investment from China - as well as debt and how to restructure it to reduce its dependence on the Chinese. But while he plans to tighten his grip, he also hopes to get at least 200 to 300 million from friendly nations - like India, Saudi Arabia, and the US to pay back China it's whopping US 1.5 billion of debt - which is more than a quarter of the country's gross domestic product. How will the Maldives pay back the debt? And until its paid, are the Chinese very much the stakeholder? This year alone - the Chinese have completed a mile-long China-Maldives friendship bridge Which connects the airport on one island to the capital on another. The Chinese are also expanding the airport itself. The airport development is an especially sore point with India after the Maldivian government canceled a US $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing. The Chinese also own many lagoons and islands with the Maldives archipelago It could take months to rid the Maldives of the Chinese influence and many of these deals are enveloped in secrecy. But India is willing to help and has in the past provided a US $75 million credit line of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration. There is also currency swap agreement between the two nations and defence deals which have seen several recent setbacks under the Yameen administration who withdrew from agreements and sent back Indian military helicopters as well. So India will hope to get back some of those defense agreements and access to key ports and islands which are strategically important to India. But China remains a big player. Which means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel anytime soon.

The Maldives win: What it means for India

India played a "positive" role in the restoration of democracy in the Maldives by "exerting pressure" on the ruling regime, and the new government in the island nation would be "sensitive" towards New Delhi's "concerns", former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said Sunday.

Nearly a month after he was released from jail, Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives for three decades until 2008, said the government of President Abdulla Yameen inflicted "huge damage" on the Maldives but democratic forces have prevailed over their "enemies".

Joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came out victorious in the September 23 presidential election, handing a shock defeat to incumbent Yameen and capping months of political upheaval in the tourist paradise. The political turmoil was triggered by the imposition of emergency in February and jailing of several of opposition leaders including Gayoom, a half-brother of Yameen.

Yameen had challenged the outcome of the elections, alleging the vote was rigged but the country's Supreme Court upheld the results. The transition of power is due on Nov 17.

"The last few years did erode the credibility of Maldivian constitutional bodies as well as the confidence of the Maldivian people in the state," 80-year-old Gayoom told PTI in an exclusive interview.

"However, the people have themselves taken remedial action as the election results have shown. There was huge damage done, but the constitution, the constitutional bodies and the citizen rights given by the constitution will be safe and strong under the new coalition government," he added.

Gayoom had ruled the Maldives for 30 years till he was defeated in the country's first multi-party elections in 2008. He was arrested in February as part of a crackdown on Yameen's political opponents.

Asked whether Yameen drew his strength from strong backing by China, Gayoom, credited with forging strong ties with India, hoped that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people.

"We value the support China has given for our development. However, we are concerned at the level of debt we have incurred in recent years, and feel this needs to be carefully reviewed and managed. I am sure that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people," he said in the e-mail interview.

Asked about India's role after imposition of emergency by Yameen in February, Gayoom said, "India did play a positive role, and along with other international partners, did exert pressure towards the restoration of democracy."

"Keeping the Maldivian issue alive in international fora did result in putting pressure on the Yameen regime," the former Maldivian strongman, who was released from jail on September 30 following orders of a court, said.

India's ties with the Maldives came under strain after Yameen declared Emergency in the country on February 5, following an order by the country's Supreme Court to release a group of Opposition leaders, who had been convicted in widely criticised trials. The Emergency was lifted 45 days later.

"I do not see the events of the last few years having a lasting impact (on bilateral ties)...I do not think these bumps and turbulence would impact decades of (our) India first policy," he said.

Describing India as the "closest and most trusted ally" of Maldives, he said it was in the interests of all of the Maldives' geographical neighbours that there is stability in the Indian Ocean region.

"I am confident that the new government will work towards achieving this. We will be sensitive towards the concerns of India as well as of other friends," he said, adding the Maldives was looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Maldives "very soon".

During the crisis, India had ignored calls for military intervention from the opposition parties in the island nation.

The influence of China on the Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, considered a backyard of India, has been growing and it is seen as a concern in New Delhi.

Talking about the post-election scenario, Gayoom said the first priority of the new government would be to unify the people of Maldives after the era of bitter politics

"Maldivians saw through attempts to muzzle democratic voice and defeated the forces who tried to undermine democracy and rule of law in the country," he said.

Asked about the transition of power, Gayoom said the Maldivian Supreme Court has clearly stated that there were no grounds for Yameen to question the results of the presidential elections.

"The road is now clear for a smooth transition. The coalition government is committed to peace, stability, progress and democracy," he said.

He also talked about his efforts to bring multi-party democracy to the Maldives in 2008 in sync with the aspirations of the people, adding the constitution had all the checks and balance that are required to safeguard democracy.

"It is indeed sad that these very checks and balance were abused to derail democracy to protect the vested interests of a few," he said.

"It is my hope that we learn from past mistakes and move beyond the blame game, and work together for the good of our citizens and country," he added.&nbsp;

India played a "positive" role in the restoration of democracy in the Maldives by "exerting pressure" on the ruling regime, and the new government in the island nation would be "sensitive" towards New Delhi's "concerns", former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said Sunday.

India played a "positive" role in the restoration of democracy in the Maldives by "exerting pressure" on the ruling regime, and the new government in the island nation would be "sensitive" towards New Delhi's "concerns", former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said Sunday. Nearly a month after he was released from jail, Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives for three decades until 2008, said the government of President Abdulla Yameen inflicted "huge damage" on the Maldives but democratic forces have prevailed over their "enemies". Joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came out victorious in the September 23 presidential election, handing a shock defeat to incumbent Yameen and capping months of political upheaval in the tourist paradise. The political turmoil was triggered by the imposition of emergency in February and jailing of several of opposition leaders including Gayoom, a half-brother of Yameen. Yameen had challenged the outcome of the elections, alleging the vote was rigged but the country's Supreme Court upheld the results. The transition of power is due on Nov 17. "The last few years did erode the credibility of Maldivian constitutional bodies as well as the confidence of the Maldivian people in the state," 80-year-old Gayoom told PTI in an exclusive interview. "However, the people have themselves taken remedial action as the election results have shown. There was huge damage done, but the constitution, the constitutional bodies and the citizen rights given by the constitution will be safe and strong under the new coalition government," he added. Gayoom had ruled the Maldives for 30 years till he was defeated in the country's first multi-party elections in 2008. He was arrested in February as part of a crackdown on Yameen's political opponents. Asked whether Yameen drew his strength from strong backing by China, Gayoom, credited with forging strong ties with India, hoped that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people. "We value the support China has given for our development. However, we are concerned at the level of debt we have incurred in recent years, and feel this needs to be carefully reviewed and managed. I am sure that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people," he said in the e-mail interview. Asked about India's role after imposition of emergency by Yameen in February, Gayoom said, "India did play a positive role, and along with other international partners, did exert pressure towards the restoration of democracy." "Keeping the Maldivian issue alive in international fora did result in putting pressure on the Yameen regime," the former Maldivian strongman, who was released from jail on September 30 following orders of a court, said. India's ties with the Maldives came under strain after Yameen declared Emergency in the country on February 5, following an order by the country's Supreme Court to release a group of Opposition leaders, who had been convicted in widely criticised trials. The Emergency was lifted 45 days later. "I do not see the events of the last few years having a lasting impact (on bilateral ties)...I do not think these bumps and turbulence would impact decades of (our) India first policy," he said. Describing India as the "closest and most trusted ally" of Maldives, he said it was in the interests of all of the Maldives' geographical neighbours that there is stability in the Indian Ocean region. "I am confident that the new government will work towards achieving this. We will be sensitive towards the concerns of India as well as of other friends," he said, adding the Maldives was looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Maldives "very soon". During the crisis, India had ignored calls for military intervention from the opposition parties in the island nation. The influence of China on the Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, considered a backyard of India, has been growing and it is seen as a concern in New Delhi. Talking about the post-election scenario, Gayoom said the first priority of the new government would be to unify the people of Maldives after the era of bitter politics "Maldivians saw through attempts to muzzle democratic voice and defeated the forces who tried to undermine democracy and rule of law in the country," he said. Asked about the transition of power, Gayoom said the Maldivian Supreme Court has clearly stated that there were no grounds for Yameen to question the results of the presidential elections. "The road is now clear for a smooth transition. The coalition government is committed to peace, stability, progress and democracy," he said. He also talked about his efforts to bring multi-party democracy to the Maldives in 2008 in sync with the aspirations of the people, adding the constitution had all the checks and balance that are required to safeguard democracy. "It is indeed sad that these very checks and balance were abused to derail democracy to protect the vested interests of a few," he said. "It is my hope that we learn from past mistakes and move beyond the blame game, and work together for the good of our citizens and country," he added.

India helped in restoration of democracy in Maldives: Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party today filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-accept-defeat-says-yameen-after-election-defeat-167400">Watch: 'I accept defeat', says Yameen after losing Maldives election</a>

Yameen's U-turn comes after he conceded defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih-led Opposition parties. Yameen had earlier said he had met Solih and congratulated him on his election victory.

However, lawyers of Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) alleged that the vote was rigged by the independent election commission of the country.

Yameen had earlier said he would hand over power on November 17th ensuring a smooth transition.

The latest development comes amid fears that Yameen wouldn't accept the results. In the last election in 2013, the Maldives Supreme Court had annulled the vote giving Yameen time to put together an alliance and win the second round of voting against former president Mohamed Nasheed.

In a televised address to the nation just after the poll results were announced, Yameen had said "I accept the defeat," adding, "I will enable a smooth transition."

Results released by the electoral commission had shown Yameen's PPM on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorates turned out to vote during the election.

The results were hailed by India and the US as a victory for democratic forces.

In February Yameen had imposed a 45-day state of emergency cracking down on the Opposition and imprisoning the country's Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

In the run-up to the polls, Solih had pledged to investigate the disappearance of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and the death of a bogger Yameen Rasheed last year.

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party today filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month. Watch: 'I accept defeat', says Yameen after losing Maldives election Yameen's U-turn comes after he conceded defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih-led Opposition parties.

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party today filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month. Watch: 'I accept defeat', says Yameen after losing Maldives election Yameen's U-turn comes after he conceded defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih-led Opposition parties. Yameen had earlier said he had met Solih and congratulated him on his election victory. However, lawyers of Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) alleged that the vote was rigged by the independent election commission of the country. Yameen had earlier said he would hand over power on November 17th ensuring a smooth transition. The latest development comes amid fears that Yameen wouldn't accept the results. In the last election in 2013, the Maldives Supreme Court had annulled the vote giving Yameen time to put together an alliance and win the second round of voting against former president Mohamed Nasheed. In a televised address to the nation just after the poll results were announced, Yameen had said "I accept the defeat," adding, "I will enable a smooth transition." Results released by the electoral commission had shown Yameen's PPM on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorates turned out to vote during the election. The results were hailed by India and the US as a victory for democratic forces. In February Yameen had imposed a 45-day state of emergency cracking down on the Opposition and imprisoning the country's Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. In the run-up to the polls, Solih had pledged to investigate the disappearance of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and the death of a bogger Yameen Rasheed last year.

President Yameen's party challenges election results in Maldives Supreme Court

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the swearing-in ceremony of the Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in November, according to a Maldives media report Thursday.

Solih, 56, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate, emerged victorious over incumbent President Abdulla Yameen in the election held on September 23. The formal results will be announced by the election commission on Sunday.

He will be sworn in on November 17.&nbsp;

The President-elect had extended the invitation during a phone call by Modi, after Solih's victory in the September 23 presidential elections, spokesperson for Solih, Mariya Ahmed Didi was quoted as saying in 'The Edition'.

Modi had also invited Solih to visit India, Mariya said, adding that the president-elect had accepted the invitation.

The two leaders agreed to work closely together to further strengthen the close, friendly and good neighbourly relations between the two countries.

Maldives is the only SAARC country that Modi has not visited. His visit to the archipelago was cancelled in March 2015 due to the volatile political situation.

India's ties with the Maldives came under strain after President Yameen declared Emergency in the country on February 5, following an order by the country's Supreme Court to release a group of Opposition leaders, including his estranged half-brother and former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who had been convicted in widely criticised trials.&nbsp;

India had criticised the Yameen government for the imposition of the Emergency and urged it to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners.&nbsp;

The Emergency was lifted 45 days later.

In July, India expressed concern over an announcement of the presidential election without allowing democratic institutions, including Parliament and the judiciary, to work in a free and transparent manner.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the swearing-in ceremony of the Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in November, according to a Maldives media report Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the swearing-in ceremony of the Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in November, according to a Maldives media report Thursday. Solih, 56, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate, emerged victorious over incumbent President Abdulla Yameen in the election held on September 23. The formal results will be announced by the election commission on Sunday. He will be sworn in on November 17. The President-elect had extended the invitation during a phone call by Modi, after Solih's victory in the September 23 presidential elections, spokesperson for Solih, Mariya Ahmed Didi was quoted as saying in 'The Edition'. Modi had also invited Solih to visit India, Mariya said, adding that the president-elect had accepted the invitation. The two leaders agreed to work closely together to further strengthen the close, friendly and good neighbourly relations between the two countries. Maldives is the only SAARC country that Modi has not visited. His visit to the archipelago was cancelled in March 2015 due to the volatile political situation. India's ties with the Maldives came under strain after President Yameen declared Emergency in the country on February 5, following an order by the country's Supreme Court to release a group of Opposition leaders, including his estranged half-brother and former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who had been convicted in widely criticised trials. India had criticised the Yameen government for the imposition of the Emergency and urged it to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The Emergency was lifted 45 days later. In July, India expressed concern over an announcement of the presidential election without allowing democratic institutions, including Parliament and the judiciary, to work in a free and transparent manner.

Maldives' president-elect Solih invites PM Modi in swearing-in ceremony

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