Moosa Zameer, the foreign minister of Maldives, expressed gratitude towards the Indian government on Monday for providing $50 million in budgetary support to the island nation. This support holds significance amidst the strained bilateral relations between India and Maldives, particularly since the assumption of presidency by pro-China leader Mohammed Muizzu.
In a statement, Zameer conveyed his thanks to EAM @DrSJaishankar and the Government of #India for extending this crucial support through the rollover of a $50 million Treasury Bill. He emphasized that this gesture reflects the enduring friendship between #Maldives and #India. Zameer's appreciation came during his visit to India from May 8 to 10.
India's assistance came in the form of a rollover of a $50 million Treasury Bill for an additional year, facilitated through the State Bank of India, Male. The Maldives government warmly welcomed this gesture from India.
"The Government of Maldives is deeply grateful for the substantial infrastructural and High Impact Community Developmental projects currently underway with the assistance of the Government of India, which includes a significant portion in grant assistance," stated the Muizzu government.
Highlighting their commitment to furthering this collaborative partnership for the mutual benefit and prosperity of their people, the Maldives government expressed eagerness to continue working closely with India.
The relationship between India and Maldives has been strained since Muizzu assumed presidency in November. Maldives had requested the withdrawal of around 89 Indian military personnel from the country by May 10. Although the Indian military personnel were withdrawn, the Maldives government has indicated no intention to ask Indian doctors working in the country to leave.
Zameer clarified on Saturday that the 76 Indian military personnel were replaced by civilian employees of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the manufacturer of two helicopters gifted by India. This clarification put an end to the speculation regarding the exact number of individuals repatriated at the request of Male.
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