India 'closest ally, invaluable partner', Maldives president says

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday emphasised the importance of the longstanding partnership between the Maldives and India.

During a meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, President Muizzu described India as "one of our closest allies and invaluable partners." President Muizzu highlighted the significant role Indian aid and financial assistance have played in the development of the Maldives.

"These initiatives renew our hope for a more prosperous and fulfilling future for our people," President Muizzu said, underscoring the impact of ongoing projects funded by India.

Among these, he pointed to the completion of water supply and sewerage systems across 28 islands, a development he described as crucial for improving the quality of life in Maldivian communities. These projects, funded through the government of India’s Line of Credit facility, were celebrated during Jaishankar's visit.

President Muizzu expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government, and the people of India for their continued support.

Recalling his visit to New Delhi to attend Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in ceremony, he noted the importance of such high-level engagements in reinforcing bilateral relations. The President also highlighted the High Impact Community Development Projects under Indian grant assistance as a reflection of the deep cooperation between the two nations.

President Muizzu reiterated his administration’s commitment to further strengthening these historic ties, expressing confidence that the partnership between the two countries would continue to reach new heights in the coming years.

"The Maldivian people value the close and historic ties with the Indian people, and we are committed to preserving and strengthening it," he said.

"I look forward to seeing the Maldives–India partnership thrive and continue to grow in the years ahead. I wish peace, prosperity, and security for both the Maldives and India in the future."

Jaishankar's visit is the first official visit by an Indian minister to Maldives in the government of President Muizzu, who was sworn in November. 

Jaishankar's visit shows that Maldives-India relations are recovering.

Withdrawal of Indian troops from Maldives and the insulting comments of three Maldivian deputy ministers on social media to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have further strained relations with India.