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.