External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Maldives’ Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam in New Delhi on May 14. This meeting marks Adam’s inaugural official visit to India, where both leaders engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. Jaishankar highlighted India’s steadfast dedication to supporting the development of Maldives, stating, “Good to meet FM Iruthisham Adam of Maldives on her first official visit to India. Underlined our Neighbourhood First policy and reviewed our bilateral cooperation.”

Commitment to Strengthening Ties

During the discussions, both ministers emphasised the importance of fostering close ties and reinforcing people-to-people connections. Adam remarked on the enduring partnership between the two nations, affirming a mutual commitment to collaborate on issues of significant importance. She noted that the Maldives’ ‘Maldives First’ Foreign Policy inherently aligns with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, thereby promoting shared objectives and enhancing cooperation.

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also met with Foreign Minister Adam, reiterating the unique partnership that India and the Maldives share as both countries commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations. Goyal conveyed that their discussions aimed to hasten negotiations regarding the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement, advance the Bilateral Investment Treaty, and encourage trade transactions in local currencies.

In her remarks following the meeting, Minister Adam underscored the ongoing efforts between India and Maldives to bolster trade relations. She stated, “Reaffirmed the strong and special partnership between the Maldives and India as we observe the 60 years of diplomatic relations.” Both leaders recognised the necessity of working closely to enhance business-to-business engagement and economic cooperation.

Focus on Economic Growth and Cooperation

The meeting also included discussions on further promoting collaboration in various sectors such as tourism, digital payments, and inter-business linkages. Goyal confirmed the aim to fast-track negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement and the importance of digitalisation in trade relations. He stated, “Our discussions focused on expediting negotiations for the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement and advancing the Bilateral Investment Treaty.”

As the two nations celebrate six decades of diplomatic ties, both foreign ministers highlighted the significance of developing trade partnerships to benefit their respective economies. The Ministry of External Affairs earlier expressed that the relationship between India and Maldives is rich with historical ties, encompassing ethnic, linguistic, cultural, and religious connections.

India and the Maldives have maintained close, cordial, and multidimensional relations through numerous initiatives aimed at mutual growth and cooperation. As both nations continue to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral ties, their commitment to collaborate effectively remains evident in this high-level diplomatic engagement.

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