News Desk
Male’, Maldives — In a ceremony today at the President’s Office, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who is on an official visit to the Maldives, celebrated the completion of water supply and sanitation projects across 28 Maldivian islands. Jaishankar, along with Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar, participated in the handing-over of these projects, funded by India’s Line of Credit Facility through EXIM Bank. The presence of Minister Jaishankar and other Indian officials, along with various ministers and state dignitaries, underscored the significance of the occasion and highlighted the robust diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
President Muizzu’s remarks strongly affirmed the Maldives’ commitment to its strategic partnership with India, describing the country as a vital partner. He stressed the “historic and close connections” between the two nations, reflecting a mutual commitment amidst regional and domestic challenges. The President also highlighted the economic benefits of these initiatives, noting their role in boosting local economies and contributing to national prosperity.
In his speech, President Muizzu stressed the importance of the Maldives’ partnership with India, declaring, “India has always been one of the closest allies and invaluable partners, facilitating and providing aid whenever Maldives has needed it.” This statement underscores the strategic and historical significance of the bilateral relationship, reflecting a mutual commitment amidst regional and domestic challenges.
The President highlighted the economic impact of these initiatives, noting that they “would provide significant economic benefits, boost the local economies, and together contribute to the nation’s prosperity.” He referred to the projects as key milestones in the Maldives’ relations with India, emphasizing their role in enhancing local development.
The President also extended gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, saying, “We are deeply grateful to the Prime Minister of India, the government, and the friendly people of India for their generous and continued assistance to the Maldives.” This acknowledgment reflects a strategic effort to maintain strong diplomatic relations and personal ties with key Indian leaders.
Recounting his recent visit to India, President Muizzu expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet with PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, emphasizing the importance of these interactions for strengthening bilateral relations. He also praised the “High Impact Community Development Projects under Indian Grant Assistance,” noting that they demonstrate both countries’ engagement in socioeconomic development and the “numerous revolutionary initiatives” underway.
In concluding his speech, President Muizzu emphasized the long-standing nature of the relationship between the Maldives and India, stating, “Centuries of friendship, mutual respect, and a strong sense of kinship have nourished the relations between the Maldives and India.” He voiced optimism for future cooperation, expressing his anticipation that “Maldives-India cooperation will prosper and develop in the coming years.”
President Muizzu’s remarks delivered a vibrant affirmation of the Maldives’ strategic bond with India, celebrating the tangible benefits of their partnership and reinforcing the deep and enduring ties between the two nations.
