Maldivian Foreign Minister begins 3-day India visit, to hold talks with Jaishankar

Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel began a three-day visit to India on May 25, 2025. This marks his third trip to India this year, highlighting the growing importance of diplomatic ties between the two neighbors. During his visit, he will hold talks with India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, to enhance cooperation in key areas such as maritime security, economic growth, and regional stability.

Background and Importance of the Visit

India and the Maldives have long shared close ties due to their geographic proximity and cultural connections. However, relations faced some challenges after the Maldivian presidential election in November 2023. President Mohamed Muizzu’s rise to power caused a brief strain. Since then, both countries have worked hard to restore and strengthen their partnership. This visit is a clear sign of the Maldives’ commitment to deepen its cooperation with India.

India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy plays a vital role here. It aims to strengthen relations with neighboring countries. The visit also fits within India’s MAHASAGAR vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. This vision focuses on prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Main Goals and Schedule

In New Delhi, Minister Khaleel will lead the Maldivian delegation at the 2nd High-Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting. This group monitors the progress of the India-Maldives Vision Document. The document was signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Muizzu in October 2024. It outlines cooperation in economic development, maritime security, infrastructure, and cultural ties.

A key part of the visit will be the bilateral talks between Khaleel and Jaishankar. They plan to discuss:

• Maritime Security: Both countries want to enhance naval coordination, intelligence sharing, and joint exercises to tackle piracy and crime at sea.
• Economic Cooperation: The ministers will explore ways to boost trade and investment, particularly in tourism, fisheries, renewable energy, and infrastructure.
• Regional Stability and Connectivity: They will address regional challenges and discuss improving transport and digital links to strengthen people-to-people ties.
• Climate and Environmental Issues: The Maldives is vulnerable to climate change. It seeks support from India for sustainable development, disaster management, and clean energy.

Strengthening the Strategic Partnership

The Maldives is a crucial maritime neighbor for India. Their close location makes their partnership strategically important. India supports the Maldives through grants, credits, and capacity-building programs to help stabilize the region.

This visit aims to elevate the relationship to a “Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.” This partnership covers security, trade, infrastructure, and more. It will help the Maldives improve its infrastructure and strengthen India’s presence in the Indian Ocean.

Diplomatic Context in the Region

The Indian Ocean region faces growing geopolitical competition. Various global powers are seeking influence here. The Maldives holds a key position in this dynamic. India’s engagement helps keep the region peaceful and stable. It also counters outside interference.

Minister Khaleel’s visit is timely. Both countries want to reaffirm their partnership amid these changes. Their cooperation can create a strong front for regional peace and prosperity.

People-to-People Connections

Beyond official diplomacy, India and the Maldives share strong cultural and social ties. Tourism links are vital. Many Indians visit the Maldives yearly, and vice versa. Educational exchanges and cultural programs also foster mutual understanding.

During the visit, officials may discuss easing visa rules and promoting cultural cooperation. These efforts will help deepen friendship between the peoples of both nations.

Conclusion: A Renewed Partnership

The Maldivian Foreign Minister’s three-day visit signals a fresh start in India-Maldives relations. Through talks with S. Jaishankar, Maldives aims to boost cooperation in maritime security, economic growth, climate action, and regional peace.

This partnership can serve as a model for collaboration in the Indian Ocean. It promises benefits not just for India and the Maldives, but for the entire region. The visit reflects renewed trust and a shared vision for a stable and prosperous future.