India and Maldives Chart a Course for Deeper Cooperation in Historic State Visit

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India and Maldives Chart a Course for Deeper Cooperation in Historic State Visit


India and Maldives solidify their deep-rooted ties with a landmark state visit, witnessing major agreements on finance, trade, and defense, alongside cultural exchanges. This visit paves the way for a more robust and cooperative future between the two maritime nations.

Guwahati,Assam – A significant state visit by the Prime Minister of India to the Republic of Maldives on July 26, 2025, has ushered in a new era of enhanced cooperation and cemented the long-standing bond between the two Indian Ocean nations. The visit, marked by a series of pivotal agreements, inaugurations, and symbolic gestures, underscores a shared vision for prosperity, security, and regional stability.

The extensive outcomes of the visit touch upon critical areas including finance, trade, infrastructure, defence, and cultural exchange, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the India-Maldives partnership.

Financial and Economic Commitments Propel Future Growth


A cornerstone of the visit was the extension of a Line of Credit (LoC) of INR 4,850 crores to Maldives. This substantial financial assistance, formalised by an agreement between Mr. Moosa Zameer, Maldivian Minister of Finance and Planning, and Dr. S. Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, will undoubtedly bolster Maldives' economic development initiatives.

Further alleviating the financial burden on the island nation, an Amendatory Agreement on reducing annual debt repayment obligations of Maldives on Government of India-funded LoCs was also signed. This move demonstrates India's commitment to supporting Maldives' fiscal health.

Looking ahead to greater economic integration, both nations announced the launch of negotiations for an India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA). The Terms of Reference for this crucial agreement were exchanged between Mr. Mohamed Saeed, Maldivian Minister of Economic Development and Trade, and Dr. S. Jaishankar, signalling a strong intent to boost bilateral trade and investment.

Infrastructure Development and Community Empowerment


The visit saw the handing-over of 3,300 social housing units in Hulhumale, built under India's Buyers' Credit facilities. This initiative is a testament to India's commitment to supporting social development and improving the quality of life for Maldivian citizens.

Significant infrastructure projects were also inaugurated, including the Roads and Drainage system project in Addu city, a vital development for urban planning and resilience. Furthermore, the inauguration of 6 High Impact Community Development Projects across Maldives highlights India's focus on grassroots development and direct benefit to local communities.

The practical aspects of cooperation were further underscored by the handing-over of 72 vehicles and other equipment, along with two BHISHM Health Cube sets, enhancing Maldives' capabilities in various sectors, including healthcare.

Strengthening Defence and Bilateral Ties


A highlight of the visit was the joint inauguration of the state-of-the-art Ministry of Defence (MoD) building in Male by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President H. E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. This eleven-storey structure, overlooking the Indian Ocean and constructed with India's financial assistance, symbolises the robust and enduring defence and security cooperation between the two nations, aiming to enhance the capabilities of Maldives' defence and law enforcement authorities.

Diverse Agreements for a Multifaceted Partnership


Beyond the headline announcements, a series of MoUs and agreements were exchanged, broadening the scope of bilateral cooperation:

  • Fisheries & Aquaculture: An MoU was signed to foster cooperation in this vital sector, crucial for Maldives' economy.

  • Meteorological Services: The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Maldives Meteorological Services (MMS) will collaborate on weather and climate studies.

  • Digital Transformation: An MoU was inked for sharing successful digital solutions implemented at population scale, promoting digital governance and technology exchange.

  • Health and Pharmaceuticals: The recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) by Maldives will streamline pharmaceutical trade and ensure quality.

  • Digital Payments: A Network-to-Network Agreement between India’s NPCI International Payment Limited (NIPL) and Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) will facilitate the use of UPI in Maldives, enhancing convenience for citizens and tourists alike.

A Symbol of Enduring Friendship: Commemorative Stamps


In a poignant tribute to the enduring friendship, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President H. E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu released commemorative stamps on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of India-Maldives diplomatic relations. These stamps beautifully depict the Indian 'Uru' boat and the traditional Maldivian 'Vadhu Dhoni', symbols of the shared maritime heritage and centuries-old trade ties in the Indian Ocean. India was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Maldives after its independence in 1965, and this gesture reaffirms the deep historical bond.

This state visit has not only reaffirmed the strong diplomatic ties between India and Maldives but has also laid a robust foundation for future collaboration across a wide spectrum of areas, promising a period of sustained growth, security, and mutual prosperity for both nations.

(with the help of pib & pmo)


#IndiaMaldives #BilateralRelations #ModiInMaldives
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