A Comprehensive Economic Partnership Is the Goal for India and the Maldives

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to further the two countries' existing intimate ties. After their talks, a proposal to establish a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership with an emphasis on enhancing the quality of life for people in the Indian Ocean Region was developed.

A Closer Look at the India-Maldives Partnership

Political and parliamentary engagement

• The two sides decided to promote political cooperation through leadership, ministerial and parliament-to-parliament exchanges.
• To enhance cooperation between the Parliaments, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed

Developmental Partnership

• The two countries assured to work on the tailored needs of the Maldives on various areas including housing assistance with its needs contributed to social housing projects, and also the Greater Malé connectivity project.

Economic cooperation and trade

• Agreements that include starting negotiations about Bilateral Free Trade Agreement, local currencies for trade transaction and business facilities for bilateral investments.

Cooperation on Digital and Financial Issues

• The two countries will work on digital governance solutions, including UPI (Unified Payments Interface) in the Maldives.

Health Cooperation

• The day before yesterday announced measures to enhance healthcare — access to quality healthcare services, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, mental health services and research.

Training and capacity building

• India will assist in the training of civil servants and local government officials in Maldives, offers skill training to the women and an Incubator for Start-up.

People-to-People Linkages

• The two countries will enhance educational and cultural exchanges by opening educational institutions and establishing skill development centres.