Friendship always first: PM resets India-Maldives ties with defence, trade push
India on Friday announced a Rs4,850 crore (USD 565 million) line of credit to the Maldives. 'This amount will be used for projects related to the development of infrastructure in the Maldives, in accordance with the priorities of the people of the country', the PM announced.Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the pact signed during the visit would reduce the Maldives' annual debt repayment to India by 40 per cent. While China's growing assertiveness was not directly mentioned, Misri said India continues to work with the Maldives on issues that may 'impinge not just our security but the common security of the region.'PM Modi confirmed that both sides will soon finalise a bilateral investment treaty and that negotiations for a free trade agreement have already begun.During the visit,PM Modi and Muizzu jointly inaugurated several India-backed projects, including a new defence ministry building in Male, roads and drainage systems in Addu city, and 3,300 housing units in Hulhumale. PM Modi also handed over 72 vehicles and equipment to the Maldives National Defence Force.Describing the new defence ministry complex as a 'concrete building of trust,' PM Modi said it stands as a symbol of the 'strong partnership' between the two nations. 'India will continue to support the Maldives in the development of its defence capabilities. Peace, stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region is our common goal,' he added.Reaffirming the Maldives' role in India's strategic outreach, PM Modi said, 'The Maldives holds an important place in both India's Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision.'PM Modi also spotlighted India's swift and consistent support to the Maldives during times of crisis. 'India is also proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives. Be it a disaster or a pandemic, India has always stood by as a 'first responder',' he said.advertisementHe welcomed the progress made under the economic and maritime security vision unveiled during Muizzu's visit to New Delhi in October last year. 'Now it is becoming a reality. And as a result of that, our relations are touching new heights,' PM said.The Prime Minister also noted the growing success of India's UPI (Unified Payments Interface) system in the Maldives. 'The speed with which UPI is being promoted in the Maldives will give a boost to both tourism and retail,' he said.PM Modi arrived in Male from London in the second and final leg of his two-nation tour. He received a warm welcome at Velena International Airport, with President Muizzu and top Maldivian ministers personally receiving him. Later, he was accorded a ceremonial welcome and a guard of honour at the Republic Square.- EndsMust Watch
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