India Strengthens Ties with Strategic Neighbour Maldives Amid Leadership Shift

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized India's commitment to nurturing its relationship with the Maldives during his three-day visit. This visit, following the appointment of pro-China President Mohammad Muizzu, reaffirms New Delhi's support. Jaishankar highlighted India's historical aid to the Maldives and the role of the Indian diaspora globally.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday underscored the strategic importance of the Maldives as a vital neighbor to India, stating that New Delhi will persist in fostering and finding pragmatic ways to express friendship with the island nation.

Jaishankar conversed with the Indian diaspora during his three-day official visit, marking the first high-level interaction since pro-China President Mohammad Muizzu assumed office last year. He illuminated the substantial impact of Indian-origin members across the world, detailing the strength of the 27,000-strong Indian expatriate community in the Maldives.

In discussions with President Muizzu, Jaishankar stressed New Delhi's dedication to deepening bilateral relations, evidenced by inaugurating a $110 million water and sanitation project. The visit reiterated historical support moments, like the 1988 coup averted by India, and reaffirmed that relationships between nations are rooted in personal and historical ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)