Malé, 18 November 2025 — In a significant demonstration of deepening ties and forward-looking cooperation, the Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives recently met with officials and students at the Foreign Service Institute of Maldives, underscoring India’s commitment to building capacity for the next generation of Maldivian diplomats.
During the interaction with the Foreign Service Institute, the High Commissioner spoke about the importance of professional diplomatic training, exchanges, and institutional partnerships. Discussions centered on how India, with its long tradition of diplomacy, can support Maldives in strengthening its foreign service capabilities — particularly in areas like negotiation, multilateral engagement, and maritime diplomacy. This engagement is framed in the spirit of shared history and future, as both countries mark 60 years of diplomatic ties.
Highlights from Minister Naidu’s Recent Visit
The High Commissioner’s visit builds on momentum created during the recent trip of Indian Civil Aviation Minister Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu to the Maldives:
- Hanimaadhoo International Airport Inauguration: Minister Naidu, serving as a Special Envoy of the Indian Prime Minister, jointly inaugurated the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. The airport project was financed through a line of credit from India.
- Bilateral Meetings: During his visit, he held high-level meetings with Maldives’ Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel and the Transport and Civil Aviation Minister, Mohamed Ameen, reflecting a shared vision for enhancing air connectivity, technical cooperation, and aviation infrastructure.
- Symbol of Partnership: Minister Naidu described the airport not just as infrastructure, but as “a hub for development and advancement” that embodies the strength of India–Maldives friendship.
India’s Role in Regional Stability
India’s growing partnership with the Maldives comes at a pivotal time. With strategic importance in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is central to India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR vision for regional cooperation.
Financial Support & Development: In recent high-level engagements, India announced a US$ 565 million line of credit to the Maldives, which will support critical infrastructure projects.
- Debt Relief: India has also agreed to reduce the Maldives’ annual repayment burden on existing credit lines, easing financial pressures and reinforcing trust.
- Maritime & Security Cooperation: Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security. Bilateral exercises, capacity-building, and support for the Maldives National Defence Force are key pillars of this security partnership.
- Development Projects: Beyond aviation, India has supported housing, defense infrastructure, and social development in the Maldives.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The renewed diplomatic drive signals more than just bilateral goodwill — it also underscores a strategic partnership where India plays a stabilizing role in the region, in partnership with its neighbors. By investing in capacity-building, infrastructure, and shared security, India and the Maldives are not only celebrating six decades of friendship but also charting a robust course for the decades ahead.
As the two nations commemorate their 60 years of diplomacy, their collaboration sends a powerful message: that enduring partnerships are built not just on history, but on shared vision and investment in the future.
