India and Maldives Reinforce Bilateral Ties

On 3rd January 2025, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel in New Delhi, emphasizing the robust bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Key Points

Strengthened Economic Cooperation: Introduction of a framework enabling the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions.
Maritime Security Focus: Collaboration to address piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and terrorism in the Indian Ocean region.
Neighborhood First Policy: Maldives remains a central focus of India's regional diplomacy and support initiatives.
Commitment to Partnership: Jaishankar reaffirmed India's support for the Maldives in sectors like capacity building, security, and essential commodity supply
Strategic Projects: India’s assistance in completing the Maldives National Defence Force’s ‘Ekatha’ harbour project at UTF to enhance maritime capabilities.
Broader Engagement: Discussions on strengthening ties through economic cooperation and security collaboration.