Maldives has signed thirteen new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with India under Phase III of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), an initiative supported by Indian grant assistance.

The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Maldives–India partnership.\

These new projects, with a total grant value of MVR 100 million, are primarily focused on enhancing ferry services, improving connectivity, and uplifting livelihoods in island communities across the country.

On behalf of the Government of Maldives, the MoUs were signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, with Indian High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian representing the Government of India.

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen also signed the documents as the head of the implementing agency.

Speaking at the event, Minister Khaleel expressed deep appreciation for India’s consistent and meaningful support, noting that the newly signed projects go beyond infrastructure.

The Minister emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations and voiced optimism that the successful execution of these initiatives would open doors to even broader cooperation.

Minister Ameen highlighted the achievements already made in expanding the national ferry network, which now links 81 islands across 9 atolls.

He said the new projects under the HICDP will help further strengthen this network.

Originally scheduled for completion in 2027, the ferry network project is now expected to conclude by the end of this year.

Both ministers extended sincere gratitude to the Government of India for its continued support.

Minister Khaleel also conveyed appreciation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar for their roles in advancing bilateral relations, and acknowledged the efforts of High Commissioner Balasubramanian and his team in facilitating these projects.

The announcement of HICDP Phase III was made during President Muizzu’s State Visit to India in October last year.