Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, is on an official visit to India from January 2-4, 2025. The visit comes in the wake of a landmark State Visit to India by President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives in October 2024, further solidifying the growing partnership between the two nations.
On January 3, 2025, Dr. Khaleel held comprehensive bilateral talks with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar. The discussions focused on reviewing the progress made on agreements reached during President Muizzu’s visit and assessing areas that require continued focus. Both sides emphasized the shared commitment to enhancing the robust ties between India and the Maldives, with a special focus on economic cooperation and regional maritime security.
During the meeting, Dr. Jaishankar reiterated India’s strong dedication to the “Neighbourhood First” policy and its broader vision for regional security and prosperity, encapsulated in the “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative. “India views the Maldives as a key partner in the Indian Ocean region, and we will continue to extend support to the Maldives in all aspects of growth and security,” Dr. Jaishankar said.
On his part, Foreign Minister Dr. Khaleel expressed gratitude for India’s unwavering support, particularly in times of crisis. He highlighted the prompt emergency financial assistance provided by India to the Maldives, noting that India has consistently acted as the “First Responder” during emergencies. Dr. Khaleel also reaffirmed the commitment of President Muizzu and the Maldives government to work closely with India in advancing the joint vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership between the two countries.
A significant achievement during this visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two countries, which will pave the way for the implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects under Phase-III of India’s grant assistance to the Maldives. These projects aim to improve local infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for communities across the archipelago.
This visit marks yet another step in the ongoing high-level engagements between India and the Maldives, underscoring the deepening ties between the two nations. Both sides have expressed their determination to further strengthen cooperation, not only for their mutual benefit but also for the greater good of the Indian Ocean Region.
The visit also emphasizes the strategic importance of the India-Maldives relationship, which continues to evolve with a focus on economic development, maritime security, and regional stability.
The three-day visit, which will conclude on January 4, 2025, serves as a key opportunity for both sides to review the broader strategic partnership and outline future areas of collaboration, reflecting their shared vision of a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Indian Ocean region.