India-Maldives Bilateral Relations

The prime minister announced a Rs 4,850-crore line of credit to the Maldives, emphasizing India's position as the most trusted friend of the island nation. 

Key Announcements and Agreements

• India is launching talks on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Maldives, following the recent sealing of an FTA with the United Kingdom.
• Both countries aim to finalize a bilateral investment treaty quickly.
• Discussions focused on cooperation in trade, defense, and infrastructure.
• Four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and three agreements were exchanged.
• India handed over 3,300 social housing units in Hulhumale and inaugurated a roads and drainage system project in Addu.
• An agreement on cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture and sharing successful digital solutions was signed.

Mutual Cooperation and Security

• The prime minister highlighted the importance of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region, with intentions to bolster regional maritime security through the Colombo Security Conclave.
• The president of the Maldives noted India's role as a key market for Maldivian tourism and expressed interest in enhancing cooperation in tourism through direct flights.

Environmental and Technical Cooperation

• Discussions included technical support and capacity building in waste management, biodiversity conservation, renewable energy, and water and sanitation.
• India will provide 72 heavy vehicles to the Maldivian Ministry of Defence.

Strengthening Diplomatic Ties

• The visit marked a significant improvement in diplomatic relations, which had previously been strained following the current presidency and initial demands to withdraw Indian military personnel from the Maldives. 
• India's consistent support during economic challenges has helped restore the bilateral ties. 
• To commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations, both leaders released a commemorative stamp.