Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, is currently on an official visit to India from May 25 to 27. The visit marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral ties and deepening the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership between the two countries.
On May 26, Dr. Khaleel led the Maldivian delegation at the 2nd India-Maldives High Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting, convened to review the progress of the India-Maldives Vision Document on Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. The discussions during the meeting focused on strengthening cooperation across key areas, including political engagement, defence and security collaboration, development partnerships, trade, economy, health, and people-to-people exchanges.
Dr. Khaleel also condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April and conveyed Maldives’ solidarity with the people and Government of India. He reaffirmed Maldives’ unequivocal support for India in its fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Expressing appreciation for India’s continued support, Dr. Khaleel thanked the Government of India for the timely emergency financial assistance recently extended to the Maldives, which he noted had significantly improved the everyday lives of Maldivian citizens.
In addition to the HLCG meeting, Dr. Khaleel held bilateral talks with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to further strengthening the close partnership between the two nations.
It was mutually agreed that the 3rd HLCG meeting would be held in Malé, Maldives, at a later date to be decided by both sides.
India and the Maldives share a strong and time-tested relationship, rooted in geographic proximity, cultural ties, and strategic interests. As India’s key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean region, the Maldives plays an important role in New Delhi’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and its Vision MAHASAGAR—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.