Ref: 2024/PR/245
The Minister of External Affairs of India, His Excellency Dr. S. Jaishankar, departed today from Gan International Airport after concluding a three-day official visit to the Maldives.
Minister Dr. Jaishankar arrived in the Maldives on 09 August 2024, and called on the President of the Republic of Maldives, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, and met with his counterpart, Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Moosa Zameer. During their discussions, the Ministers focused on development and cooperation, with particular interest in expanding economic cooperation and trade. They also reviewed the progress of projects currently at various stages of implementation and inaugurated/handover six grant projects under the High Impact Community Development Project scheme.
Ministers Zameer and Dr. Jaishankar witnessed the exchange of two key agreements, including a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to enhance and expand digital and integrated payment systems. Additionally, both Ministers participated in the inauguration and handover of six High Impact Community Development Projects across seven different atolls.
In a separate ceremony held at the President’s Office in the presence of President Dr. Muizzu, Minister Dr. Jaishankar handed over water and sewerage facilities implemented across 28 islands of the Maldives, undertaken through the EXIM Line of Credit, to Minister Zameer. Minister Dr. Jaishankar also reviewed the progress of the Greater Malé Connectivity Project—Malé to Thilafushi Link Project—a project of notable importance that signifies the strong Maldives-India partnership.
During his visit, Minister Dr. Jaishankar inaugurated the four-lane detour link road connecting Maradhoo to Hithadhoo around Hankede Island—a major component of the “Design and Build of Construction of Roads and Drainage System in Addu City Project.” He also marked the completion of the shore protection projects, both funded by the EXIM Line of Credit facility provided with assistance from the Government of India.
The official visit of Minister Dr. Jaishankar marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the Maldives and India, as it was the first visit by the Minister since the administration of President Dr. Muizzu took office.
Both Minister Zameer and Minister Dr. Jaishankar expressed their desire to elevate the friendship and strong alliance between the Maldives and India to new heights. Minister Zameer
reiterated the commitment of the Government of the Republic of Maldives and its people to intensify cooperation with India across all avenues.
Minister Dr. Jaishankar was seen off at Gan International Airport by Minister Zameer, Addu city mayor Ali Nizaar and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
ENDS