The External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, said on Friday that the very foundation of India-Maldives relations rested in the mutual commitment to each other's well-being and interests. He added that the Maldives occupied an important place in India's Neighbourhood First Policy.
Jaishankar arrived in the Maldives Friday evening on a three-day official visit to firm up the bilateral relationship. This is the first high-level visit from India since President Mohamed Muizzu, known for his pronounced pro-China stance, assumed office last year.
This comes after President Muizzu visited India in June to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony.
Speaking at a press briefing with visiting Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, Jaishankar said, “India’s partnership with the Maldives is based on our deep desire to work together for each other’s welfare and interests. It is a partnership that has enabled us to always swiftly and effectively respond to challenges as witnessed in the past.” “Maldives is one of the cornerstones of our Neighbourhood First Policy,” he said. The ties between India and the Maldives came under severe strain since Muizzu, known for his pro-China leanings, took charge of the top office in November 2023.
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