India, Maldives Ink 13 Deals for Development Projects.

India and the Maldives have signed 13 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) totaling MVR 100 million (approximately ₹55.28 crore) to implement a range of high-impact community development projects. The agreements, formalized on Sunday under India's High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Phase III, aim to significantly enhance ferry services, expand maritime connectivity, and uplift community livelihoods across the island nation.

The signing ceremony, held at the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored the deepening partnership between the two countries. The Indian High Commission in the Maldives highlighted on X that India is "happy to partner with GoM in enhancing maritime connectivity, a lifeline for the people of the Maldives."

Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Khaleel, and India's High Commissioner to the Maldives, G Balasubramanian, signed the MoUs on behalf of their respective governments. Mohamed Ameen, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, signed on behalf of the implementing agency.

Minister Khaleel emphasized that India's assistance consistently aligns with the specific needs of the Maldivian people, reflecting the enduring bond between the nations. He stressed that these projects are more than just infrastructural developments; they are "lifelines to communities," designed to address local challenges and deliver lasting socio-economic benefits. Khaleel expressed confidence that the successful execution of these initiatives will foster even greater cooperation and shared progress.

Minister Ameen highlighted the rapid advancement in establishing a nationwide high-speed ferry network, which now connects 81 islands across nine atolls. He noted that these newly signed MoUs with India will further expand these crucial services. While originally slated for completion in 2027, the project is now anticipated to be finalized by the end of this year. Both ministers conveyed their gratitude to the Indian government for its impactful support.

The announcement of HICDP Phase III was initially made during President Mohamed Muizzu's state visit to India in October of last year. Minister Ameen further posted on X, "This milestone supports President Dr. @MMuizzu's vision to strengthen our national transport network by year-end. Grateful for India's continued support."