It is in the common interest of both countries that India and Maldives reach an understanding on how best to take the bilateral relationship forward, said Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
The Minister's remarks were made during a meeting held with the Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Moosa Zameer, who is currently on his first visit to India in a ministerial capacity.
During the meeting, both sides engaged in discussions on all aspects of the partnership to forge opportunities for future collaboration. Minister Jaishankar highlighted that India is one of the biggest development partners of Maldives.
He added India's many contribution to the development of Maldives ranging from infrastructure projects and social initiatives to healthcare and highlighted the importance of developing ties between the two neighboring countries through mutual focus on mutual interests and reciprocal sensitivity.
"As far as India is concerned, these are articulated in terms of our Neighborhood First policy and SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region) vision," the Minister said.
Minister Jaishankar said that the world today is passing through a volatile and uncertain period. In such times, as we saw during Covid, during natural disasters and economic difficulties, close partnerships with neighbors are of great value, he further added.
Minister Zameer, in response, conveyed appreciation for India's steadfast support in fostering and advancing economic, trade and investment ties between the two nations, as well as for India's committed role in the socioeconomic advancement of the Maldives.
Speaking to 'Mihaaru News' prior to his departure to India, Minister Zameer said that the biggest priority during this trip would be to strengthen mutual relations and respect between both countries.
"[...] it is to make this relationship one that citizens, political leaders, and businesses owners of both countries respect and uphold," the Minister said.
Minister Zameer will also hold discussions with Minister Jaishankar to expedite the pace of Indian-funded projects in the Maldives and to explore ways to facilitate the repayment of loans taken from the country.
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