India-Maldives Launches Four Developmental Projects Over Video Conference

A Digital Video Conference was held today between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, launching some of the important initiatives that were announced during last one year.

At the Video Conference, Indian Prime Minister spoke of New Delhi’s steadfast commitment to the socio-economic development of island nations of the Maldives. PM Modi underscored that the convergence of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and Government of Maldives’s ‘India First’ policies have strengthened bilateral cooperation in all sectors.

Four bilateral grant projects that represent the breadth and ambition of the development partnership between India and the Maldives were highlighted during the conference

1. The Gifting of a ‘Made in India’ Patrol Vessel named “KAAMIYAAB” to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The brand-new vessel will be manned by 8 MNDF personnel trained in India and will be a valuable asset for Maldives in enhancing its maritime security, fostering its blue economy and safeguarding its tourism industry.

2. Exchange of MoUs for 3 grant projects for setting up neighbourhood fish plants in the southernmost atoll of Addu. Mindful of the geographic spread of Maldives and the development needs of its people, these High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) will be implemented by the Addu City Council in the Maldives. These projects are being implemented under the MoU signed during the Former EAM late. Sushma Swaraj’s visit to the Maldives in 2019 and will help support livelihoods of the island communities in the Addu.

3. Exchange of an MoU between National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Bank of Maldives (BML) to launch the RuPay Card in Maldives. In 2019, tourist arrivals from India to Maldives have doubled and India has risen from 5th to the 2nd position in the tourism market of Maldives. The launch of the Global RuPay Card in Maldives through the Bank of Maldives will pave the way for higher tourist arrivals from India and, eventually, stronger people-to-people contacts between the two countries.

4. Installation of LED streetlights in Male. 2500 LED streetlights donated by India were installed in Male recently. These streetlights save 80 percent energy and will result in cost savings of approx. 835,000 MVR per year for Male city. They will also add to the safety and security of the residents of Male particularly women and children.

Maldivian President Solih expressed his deep appreciation to India for its support to the development aspirations and security of Maldives, conveyed his commitment to deepening cooperation and partnership with India.

Both India and Maldives need stronger and close cooperation for a prosperous and peaceful Indian Ocean Region. Both leaders reiterated the same over the digital conference.