India and the Maldives have signed 13 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to implement community-focused development initiatives under the third phase of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), reinforcing bilateral cooperation through Indian grant assistance.
The MoUs, signed at a ceremony held at the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represent a grant commitment of MVR 100 million (approximately ₹55 crore) from the Government of India. The projects will primarily support the enhancement of ferry services across the Maldives, strengthen maritime connectivity, and contribute to uplifting the socio-economic conditions of local communities.
Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Khaleel signed the MoUs on behalf of the Government of Maldives, while G. Balasubramanian, High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, represented the Indian side. Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen signed on behalf of the implementing agency.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Minister Khaleel noted that the projects are not merely infrastructural in nature but are critical to addressing local needs and fostering long-term socio-economic progress. He described India’s support as "meaningful and aligned with the aspirations of the Maldivian people."
“Pleased to launch 13 new projects today under India’s grant assistance for HICDP Phase III. These projects go beyond infrastructure. They are lifelines for communities — creating opportunities, addressing local challenges, and advancing sustainable development,” Mr. Khaleel posted on X, expressing gratitude to India for its continued partnership.
India’s High Commission in the Maldives also acknowledged the milestone on social media, stating: “Forging ties with Community Development. On May 18, India and the Maldives signed 13 MoUs for enhancing ferry services with an MVR 100 million grant under HICDP III. India is happy to partner with the Government of Maldives in enhancing maritime connectivity, a lifeline for the people of the Maldives.”
Minister Ameen, in his remarks, emphasized the rapid progress of the national high-speed ferry network, which now connects 81 islands across nine atolls. He stated that the newly signed MoUs would further expand and strengthen this network, with completion now expected by the end of 2025—well ahead of the original 2027 schedule.
“This milestone supports President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision to strengthen our national transport network by year-end. Grateful for India’s continued support,” Mr. Ameen posted on X.
The launch of HICDP Phase III was announced during President Muizzu’s state visit to India in October 2024, reflecting a renewed commitment to development cooperation despite earlier diplomatic tensions. These agreements represent a tangible outcome of that visit and further deepen the strategic and developmental partnership between the two nations.
