By Sarojini P
Maldives (Commonwealth Union)_ In a major diplomatic development, the Maldives has reaffirmed its unwavering support for India’s fight against terrorism, while committing to deeper cooperation across defense, economic, and strategic domains. During an official visit to New Delhi, Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel unequivocally condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and expressed full solidarity with the Indian government and its people. Khaleel, in his meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, stated, “Maldives expresses firm support to India in fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
The statement follows the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which drew strong reactions from both countries and reinforced the urgency of joint counter-terrorism efforts. The two leaders held their third meeting of the year in the Indian capital, where discussions focused on strengthening the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. The engagement coincided with the 2nd meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group (HLCG), where Khaleel led the Maldivian delegation. Officials confirmed that both sides reviewed the implementation of the India-Maldives Vision Document, which encompasses strategic collaboration across political dialogue, defense cooperation, trade, health, and people-to-people ties.
Minister Jaishankar, in a post on social media, welcomed the Maldives’ support, stating, “India remains committed to Maldives’ progress and development.” His remarks underscored New Delhi’s long-standing commitment to regional stability through its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the Vision MAHASAGAR initiative — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. On the economic front, Khaleel expressed deep gratitude to the Indian government for its continued financial support, which he noted has positively impacted the daily lives of Maldivians. This includes the recent rollover of a $50 million treasury bill by India, a critical move aimed at stabilizing the Maldivian economy amid fiscal stress.
India has been extending this form of financial support since March 2019, with the State Bank of India subscribing to treasury bills under a government-to-government agreement. These interest-free rollovers have been instrumental in providing emergency financial assistance to the Maldives, enabling the island nation to navigate challenging economic conditions. The visit also marks a potential thaw in bilateral relations, following diplomatic tensions after Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. Muizzu, perceived as aligning closer with Beijing, had called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. That issue has since been resolved, with Indian troops being replaced by civilian experts, paving the way for renewed trust and cooperation.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that Khaleel’s visit has further “strengthened the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership between the two countries,” signaling a shared commitment to regional peace, security, and development. As India and the Maldives move forward, this reaffirmation of mutual support against terrorism and commitment to strategic partnership reflects the growing resilience of their bilateral relationship amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean region.
