In a post on X.com, Zameer said, “It is a pleasure to welcome External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar to Addu City. We will soon commence the handover ceremony of Coastal Reclamation and Protection Project and inauguration of 4-Lane Bypass Link Road Project. Both these projects are facilitated by the Government of India under the EXIM Bank Line of Credit. These projects will contribute to the development and prosperity of the people of Addu City.”
It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister of Foreign Affairs @DrSJaishankar to the city of Addu.
We will soon begin the handover ceremony of the Coastal Reclamation and Protection Project and the inauguration of the 4-Lane Bypass Link Road Project. Both projects are facilitated by the Government of India… image.twitter.com/euRurLroX5
– Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) August 11, 2024
Jaishankar’s visit was aimed at strengthening India-Maldives relations. On Saturday, he described the Maldives as “an unusual neighbour” and said New Delhi will continue to foster the relationship. This visit is India’s first high-level trip since President Mohammad Muizzu, who is considered pro-China, took office last year.
During his visit, Jaishankar met President Muizzu to discuss deepening bilateral ties. He highlighted India’s support during several crises, including the 2004 tsunami, a water crisis in Male, and COVID-19 vaccination efforts. Jaishankar said, “Today, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we say ‘neighbourhood first’. We pay a lot of attention to the Indian Ocean countries. We have a policy called SAGAR. But I want to say that Maldives is not just an ordinary neighbour.”
Jaishankar also virtually inaugurated and handed over a $110 million Indian-funded water and sanitation project, which will benefit 28 islands and seven per cent of the Maldivian population. He said: “And the proof of this is in our history… Today, in many of my meetings, the Maldivian side, the minister or senior officials, reminded me of our (India’s) participation, our contribution to the events of November 1988, which is so important.”
Jaishankar further spoke about the impact of the Indian diaspora, saying, “India is the doctor who has treated them. India is the teacher who has educated them. India is the engineer who has worked with them.” He acknowledged the approximately 27,000 Indian expatriates in the Maldives, who play important roles in health, education and construction.
In conclusion, Jaishankar expressed his satisfaction at meeting Abdulla Shahid, President of the Maldivian Democratic Party, and appreciated his support for strengthening India-Maldives relations.
(With contributions from agencies)
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