The state visit of H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, to India from October 6 to October 10, 2024, has resulted in a series of significant announcements and agreements aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and maritime security between the two nations. Key outcomes of the visit were shared by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Key Announcements:

1. India-Maldives Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership: Both nations adopted a joint vision aimed at bolstering economic ties and ensuring maritime security in the region.
2. Refit of Maldivian Coast Guard Ship Huravee: The Government of India will undertake the refitting of the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship Huravee on a gratis basis, enhancing Maldives’ maritime security capabilities.

Launches and Inaugurations:

1. Launch of RuPay Card in Maldives: Strengthening financial linkages, the RuPay Card was officially launched in the Maldives, enabling smoother financial transactions between the two countries.
2. Inauguration of Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HIA) Runway: The new runway of Hanimaadhoo International Airport was inaugurated, improving connectivity and boosting tourism.
3. Handing over of 700 Social Housing Units: India handed over 700 social housing units built under EXIM Bank’s Buyers’ Credit Facilities, a key development project for the Maldives.

Signing and Renewal of MoUs:

Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed and renewed to foster cooperation across diverse sectors:

1. Currency Swap Agreement: Signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority to provide financial stability.
2. MoU on Policing and Law Enforcement: An agreement was signed between Rashtriya Raksha University of India and the National College of Policing and Law Enforcement of the Maldives.
3. Cooperation on Anti-Corruption: A bilateral agreement was inked between the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Anti-Corruption Commission of Maldives to combat corruption.
4. Judicial Training: The renewal of an MoU between India’s National Judicial Academy and the Judicial Service Commission of the Maldives to enhance judicial training and capacity-building for Maldivian officers.
5. Sports and Youth Cooperation: The MoU on cooperation in sports and youth affairs between the two nations was renewed to promote cultural and athletic exchanges.

These initiatives reflect the deepening of bilateral relations between India and the Maldives, underscoring India’s commitment to the socio-economic development and security of its neighbor in the Indian Ocean region.