Maldives will prioritise ties with India, FM says
Khaleel was responding to questions regarding the Maldives' growing relations with China, which had raised concerns in India in the past.
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Maldives Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel on Saturday reassured that the Maldives would not take any actions that would jeopardize its longstanding and strong relations with India.
On his ongoing visit to India, Khaleel told India’s WION channel that he emphasized that even as the Maldives seeks to strengthen ties with other nations, including China, this will not come at the cost of its relationship with India, which remains the Maldives' closest friend and neighbor.
Khaleel was responding to questions regarding the Maldives' growing relations with China, which had raised concerns in India in the past. India had expressed apprehensions when the Maldives' previous government initially appeared to favor closer ties with China, especially after the first official visit abroad was made to China without a reciprocal visit to India.
However, Khaleel clarified that while the Maldives is open to strengthening relations with other countries, it will always prioritize its connection with India.
"Not only China, but we aim to strengthen relations with various countries across different sectors, be it trade, economy, or diplomacy," Khaleel stated. "However, when it comes to India, our relationship with India remains paramount. Strengthening ties with other nations will never undermine our close and historic bond with India."
Khaleel stressed that India's support is crucial for the development of the Maldives, and the two countries have an enduring partnership in numerous areas, including security, trade, and regional cooperation. He added that the Maldives deeply values the assistance and cooperation it receives from India, noting that India has always been a reliable partner, ready to help the Maldives whenever needed.
The Foreign Minister underscored the strength of the India-Maldives relationship, explaining that India’s readiness to assist the Maldives in its development initiatives has had a positive impact on the country.
"India is always ready for anything the Maldives needs," Khaleel remarked, emphasizing that the relationship between the two countries is built on mutual respect and shared interests.
