New Delhi [India]: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s unwavering support for the Maldives’ development and prosperity, aligning with New Delhi’s Neighbourhood First policy and vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
During his meeting with Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel, Jaishankar announced the signing of agreements to implement the next phase of High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) aimed at driving growth in the Maldives and further strengthening bilateral ties.
“Discussed our development cooperation and economic, security, fintech, and people-to-people ties. Also signed an agreement on implementing the next phase of High Impact Community Development Projects #HICDP in Maldives. India will continue to be a steadfast supporter of Maldives’ progress and prosperity, in line with our Neighbourhood First policy and vision SAGAR,” Jaishankar wrote on X.
India’s Neighbourhood First policy focuses on enhancing physical, digital, and people-to-people connectivity with its neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, while fostering trade and commerce.
Under the SAGAR vision, articulated in 2015, India aspires to ensure a free, open, inclusive, and peaceful Indo-Pacific region built on a rules-based international order. Contributions include initiatives in connectivity, capacity building, and disaster management.
Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel expressed gratitude for India’s consistent support, underscoring the strong partnership between the two nations.
“We reviewed the progress of our bilateral cooperation and reaffirmed our strong commitment to enhancing engagements across key sectors. I conveyed our appreciation for India’s unwavering support and assistance to the Maldives throughout our long history of relations. We are resolute in strengthening our partnership based on mutual trust and respect, for the benefit and prosperity of our peoples,” Khaleel posted on X.
This visit marks Khaleel’s first official trip to India since assuming office.
Earlier, during the previous phase of HICDP, Jaishankar inaugurated six projects in August 2023, covering street lighting, mental health, children’s speech therapy, and special education. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Maldives Ministry of Economic Development and Trade to introduce a digital payment system in the Maldives.
The signing of these MoUs highlights the deepening partnership between India and the Maldives, founded on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for regional growth.