External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on August 10, underscoring New Delhi's dedication to enhancing relations between the two nations. This visit marks the first high-level trip from India since Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, took office last year.
Jaishankar, who is on a three-day official visit to the Maldives, conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings and emphasized India's commitment to deepening bilateral ties for mutual benefit.
"Privileged to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings of PM @NarendraModi. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region," Jaishankar posted on X, accompanied by a photograph of the meeting.
Maldives President Muizzu reciprocated the sentiments, expressing gratitude for India’s support. "I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister @narendramodi for always supporting the Maldives. Our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together, we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region,,” he noted on X, sharing images from the meeting.
During his visit, Jaishankar also met with Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon to discuss bilateral security cooperation and regional stability amid China's increasing influence in the Maldives.
Jaishankar’s trip follows President Muizzu’s visit to India in June, where he attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in ceremony. The visit aims to reset and reinforce bilateral relations that have been strained since Muizzu's administration demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives earlier this year. The personnel were replaced by civilians by May 10, 2024, as agreed.
This visit is Jaishankar’s first to the Maldives since his reappointment as External Affairs Minister in June 2024, with his last visit being in January 2023. The trip, at the invitation of Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, will last until August 11.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the Maldives as a key maritime neighbor and a crucial partner in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region). The visit aims to strengthen the partnership and explore new avenues to enhance bilateral relations further.
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