Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has said the Maldives is aiming to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India by the end of this year, as both countries seek to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Speaking in an interview with WION during her ongoing official visit to India, Iruthisham described Maldives–India ties as “long-standing” and “very close”.
The minister made the remarks following official talks with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi.
Referring to the foreign policy priorities of President Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iruthisham said both countries’ policies complement each other.
“Our first foreign policy under President Dr Muizzu and Prime Minister Modi’s neighbourhood first policy complement each other,” she said.
The minister noted that Maldives and India are currently marking 60 years of diplomatic relations.
Iruthisham highlighted ongoing cooperation in infrastructure, social housing, transport, connectivity, harbour and airport development projects, describing them as initiatives that directly impact the lives of Maldivian citizens.
She said both governments had agreed to expedite the implementation of key projects to ensure timely delivery.
India has remained one of the Maldives’ key development partners and first responders during emergencies, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking on India’s financial assistance to the Maldives, Iruthisham referred to the Rs 30 billion support extended under the SAARC currency swap arrangement, stating that the facility would help the Maldives manage short-term needs, including subsidies and the supply of essential food commodities.
The minister also noted that the Maldivian government had settled debt payments owed to India, including payments due in April and September.
On the proposed FTA, Iruthisham expressed optimism over concluding negotiations this year.
“Negotiations and consultations have already been convened. We will try to sign the free trade agreement this year,” she said.
According to the minister, the agreement is expected to further boost trade, investment, tourism and infrastructure cooperation between the two countries.
Tourism cooperation also remains a major focus, with India currently ranked as the sixth-largest tourist source market to the Maldives.
Iruthisham further described Maldives–India defence and security ties as positive, highlighting ongoing cooperation in capacity building, joint exercises and assistance provided to Maldivian security forces.
She said both countries continue to work together through regional frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Colombo Security Conclave to promote peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
Addressing previous anti-India sentiment seen in Maldivian politics, the minister said any misunderstandings may have stemmed from external influences, while reaffirming the current government’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with India.
Commenting on tensions in West Asia and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, Iruthisham stressed the importance of ensuring maritime passages remain open for the transport of essential goods and supplies.
Iruthisham, a career diplomat with more than 25 years of experience, previously served as the Maldives’ High Commissioner to the United Kingdom before being appointed foreign minister.
