During a joint statement following his meeting with President Dr. Muizzu in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India and the Maldives will enhance their cooperation in hydrography.

This statement came at a joint press conference held yesterday during President Dr. Muizzu’s first official state visit to India, invited by President Droupadi Murmu.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized India’s respect for its neighbors and highlighted the close ties between the two nations, noting India’s continued assistance to the Maldives.

He discussed the importance of strengthening bilateral relations across various sectors, particularly in oceanography and the blue economy, and announced India’s decision to expand its studies in these areas.

Modi pointed out that both countries would benefit from addressing security challenges in the Indian Ocean, mentioning the Maldives’ expansive economic territory, which makes it susceptible to piracy, IUU fishing, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

He also noted that India is providing training to the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) and that the two nations would collaborate to maintain progress and stability in the region.

Modi reaffirmed the commitment to cooperate in hydrography and disaster response, 

India has agreed to assist the Maldives in hydrographic matters, including capacity building and training for the Maldivian military, however it will be done in accordance with the requirements of Maldivian government, he highlighted.

Additionally, he mentioned that the ongoing MNDF ‘Ekatha’ harbour project, supported by India in Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF), will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the MNDF, with India pledging full support for its timely completion.

This collaboration follows an earlier hydrographic survey agreement, which the current government has opted not to renew, as President Dr. Muizzu expressed a desire for the Maldives to conduct such work independently.