New Delhi, July 26:In a significant diplomatic shift, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has described India as his country’s “closest partner” during an exclusive conversation with News18, praising the newly announced ₹5,000 crore credit line from Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a vital step forward in bilateral ties.
“India is our closest partner, of course. I’m sure it is even better now,” President Muizzu said, signalling a dramatic change from his earlier foreign policy stance that had strained India-Maldives relations.
The credit line, unveiled during PM Modi’s recent state visit to the Maldives, is expected to support a series of major development projects in the archipelagic nation. President Muizzu outlined how the funds would be strategically utilized. “We have earmarked a lot of crucial projects to carry out with that—for example, hospitals, housing development, infrastructure, and schools. So, it will definitely help,” he said.
A key highlight of PM Modi’s visit was the announcement that India and the Maldives will begin negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)—a move Muizzu described as highly promising. “Once completed, the FTA will be very beneficial for traders of both countries. We are looking forward to it,” he added.
Expressing deep gratitude to the Indian Prime Minister, Muizzu said, “We are very grateful to the PM,” and conveyed his “utmost thanks” for the timely visit and continued support.
These remarks mark a notable departure from Muizzu’s earlier posture. Elected in 2023 on a platform that included strong "Out India" rhetoric, Muizzu's administration had initially adopted a more China-leaning foreign policy, breaking convention by making state visits to Turkey and China before India.
However, efforts led by Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar—including a high-level visit to Malé last year—have played a crucial role in restoring bilateral goodwill. Muizzu’s October state visit to India further helped reset diplomatic relations.
With the new credit line and plans for an FTA on the horizon, the renewed warmth between New Delhi and Malé is expected to bolster regional cooperation and economic development.
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