Male/New Delhi, Aug 12 (FN Bureau) Maldives-India relations are the strongest at this point in time, Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer has said, following the visit by Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to the Indian Ocean island nation. Minister Zameer underscored that the bilateral ties between the two nations is very strong, in the wake of President Mohamed Muizzu’s official visit to India in June, and Indian External Affairs Minister’s visit to the Maldives, he said in an interview to PSM News. The Maldives FM said that both the trips played a crucial role in enhancing the bilateral relations, and noted that this was the first official visit of Minister Jaishankar, after being elected for a new term.
Foreign Minister Zameer revealed that he received an important message from India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming India’s commitment to assist and support the Maldives. He expressed confidence that the positive impacts of the Maldives-India relations are being observed continuously. He said the foreign policy of President Muizzu was the most beneficial policy for the people. Highlighting the long-standing relations between the Maldives and India, Minister Zameer recognised that India has provided support and assistance to the Maldives in all the previous administrations. He stated that the Maldives government has realigned some loans under previous agreements between the two nations, such that it benefits Maldivians.
He also noted that efforts are underway to expedite the ongoing developmental projects as well. EAM Jaishankar’s three-day visit saw him hold talks with FM Zameer, jointly inaugurate six India-aided High Impact Community Development Projects, and also visit Addu City where he inaugurated three major projects being executed by India. He also called on President Muizzu, who voiced happiness at the close bilateral partnership between the nations.