Maldives First in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy: PM Modi to President Muizzu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu held extensive discussions on Monday, expressing their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. PM Modi reaffirmed the Maldives’ pivotal role in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. The leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral relations after a period of strained interactions.
“India and Maldives relations are centuries old. India is Maldives’ nearest neighbour and close friend,” PM Modi stated. “Maldives holds an important position in our neighbourhood policy and SAGAR vision. India has always played the role of first responder for Maldives.” Muizzu, who arrived in New Delhi on Sunday, is on his first state visit to India since taking office last November. His visit comes amid efforts to mend relations while managing a struggling economy back home.
Ties between India and the Maldives have been strained since Muizzu won the presidency on an ‘India Out’ campaign and ordered the eviction of Indian troops from the island nation. Recently, he has toned down his anti-India rhetoric, but New Delhi remains wary of his pro-China inclinations.
Despite these challenges, both leaders expressed a commitment to enhancing their relationship. PM Modi highlighted India’s role in supporting the Maldives during crises. He mentioned that both countries have adopted a shared vision of a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership.
“Development partnership is an important pillar of our (India-Maldives) relations. We have always prioritized the needs of the Maldivian people,” he added.
The Prime Minister also announced India’s decision to provide critical financial assistance to the Maldives to help it recover from ongoing economic challenges. “This year, SBI rolled over 100 million dollars of the Treasury Bench of Maldives. According to the needs of Maldives, a 400 million dollars and Rs 3000 crores currency swap agreement was also signed,” he said.
Economic cooperation extends to infrastructure development as well. PM Modi and Muizzu virtually inaugurated the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport, a project supported by India. Other agreements include:
- India introduces Rupay card in Maldives.
- India and Maldives discuss opening an Indian consulate in Addu and a Maldivian consulate in Bengaluru.
- India hands over 700 social housing units built with its support to Maldives.
- India will roll over a $50 million Treasury Bill for another year to provide essential budgetary relief to the Maldivian government.
- India and Maldives set to start talks on a Free Trade Agreement.
President Muizzu thanked PM Modi for the financial support and acknowledged that India has always stood by the island nation in its time of need. He also invited PM Modi to visit the Maldives.
“Our new comprehensive vision document will include development, maritime security, trade partnerships, energy projects, health,” Muizzu announced.
Earlier in the day, Muizzu was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Droupadi Murmu, with PM Modi in attendance.
