Image courtesy: X/@abkhaleel
Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel will arrive in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a three-day visit. During his trip, he is set to engage in discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar on Friday at Hyderabad House.
Dr. Khaleel, appointed as Maldives Foreign Minister on September 30, 2024, by President Mohamed Muizzu, previously served as the nation’s Minister of Health. Known for his acknowledgment of India’s vital role in aiding the Maldives’ rapid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Khaleel has maintained a consistent focus on deepening bilateral ties.
In October 2024, he accompanied President Muizzu on a significant five-day state visit to India. During this visit, both nations adopted the ‘Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,’ which aims to expand cooperation across various sectors. President Muizzu expressed his gratitude for India’s continued financial assistance and support during this visit, including the extension of financial measures like T-bill rollovers and currency swaps.
The Maldives President also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in tourism, economic diversification, and sustainable development. He emphasized investment prospects in special economic zones, luxury islands, eco-friendly resorts, and integrated tourism projects.
The upcoming meeting between Dr. Khaleel and EAM Jaishankar will focus on advancing cooperation in key areas such as social housing, infrastructure development, agriculture and fisheries, trade and investment, healthcare, human resource development, women’s empowerment, renewable energy, and maritime security.
Dr. Khaleel’s visit underscores the Maldives’ commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with India, aiming for mutual benefits and sustainable growth for both nations.
