In a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations, Maldivian Foreign Affairs Minister Moosa Zameer and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar are set to kick off the ceremonial handover of key infrastructure projects in Addu City. The events, which include the reclamation and shore protection project and the inauguration of a new 4-lane Detour Link road, mark a milestone in the ongoing cooperation between the two nations.
On Sunday, Minister Moosa Zameer warmly welcomed Minister Jaishankar to Addu City. Zameer took to social media platform X to highlight the importance of these projects. He noted that both initiatives were made possible through the financial support of the Indian government under the Lines of Credit (LoC) from EXIM Bank. According to Zameer, these projects are expected to significantly boost the development and prosperity of Addu City and its residents.
Pleasure to welcome External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar to Addu City.
We will soon commence the handing over ceremony of reclamation and shore protection project and inauguration of 4-Lane Detour Link road project. Both projects facilitated by the Government of India… pic.twitter.com/euRurLroX5
— Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) August 11, 2024
In a related development, earlier on Saturday, Abdulla Shahid, the President of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), met with Minister Jaishankar during his visit to the Maldivian capital, Male. Shahid expressed optimism about the strengthening of ties between India and the Maldives, praising India for its readiness to assist the Maldives during challenging times.
He also acknowledged the negative impact of the previous government’s anti-India stance on their bilateral relations. Shahid welcomed the current administration’s move towards improved relations and closer cooperation with India.
The MDP issued a statement emphasizing the enduring and positive relationship between the Maldives and India. The statement highlighted the shared principles of mutual respect, adherence to international law, and a commitment to regional security. The MDP also celebrated the recent exchange of notes that will train an additional 1,000 civil service officers, a key initiative launched during President Ibrahim Solih’s administration.
Additionally, Minister Jaishankar handed over a major water and sanitation project worth USD 110 million to the Maldives on Saturday. This project, funded by India, aims to address critical water and sanitation needs in the island nation.
Jaishankar’s visit to the Maldives is notable as it is his first since being re-appointed for a second term. This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of both nations to strengthening their ties and cooperating on important development projects.
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