Without India, Maldives would have gone default: Nasheed
As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a two-day state visit to the Maldives, former President Mohamed Nasheed has strongly reaffirmed support for the India-Maldives strategic partnership, describing India as “essential to the stability and prosperity of the Indian Ocean.”
In an interview with an Indian news channel, Asian News International, 'ANI' Nasheed emphasized that despite some oscillation in past election cycles, the Maldives is now firmly committed to an “India First” foreign policy.
He noted that as Maldivian democracy matures, its foreign policy is also stabilizing.
Today, across the political spectrum in the Maldives, the approach is firmly India first,
Nasheed stated
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit marks a symbolic reaffirmation of India’s strategic importance in the region, he stated that it represents a meaningful contribution to our national stability and that it will open new avenues for shared prosperity.
The former president also underscored the Maldives’ growing alignment with India’s economic vision through India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, he praised the inclusive nature of India’s growth model, noting that India’s prosperity does not come at the expense of its neighbours.
It is not in the instinct of Indian society to grow in isolation. They want to do it together,
Nasheed added
He described the regional policy as a driver of rising tourist arrivals from India to Maldivian resorts.
On trade, Nasheed voiced optimism about the proposed free trade agreement (FTA) being negotiated between the two countries.
He pointed to the increasing demand for Maldivian fish in India as evidence of the deepening commercial ties, and noted that the potential of the free trade agreement (FTA) to boost food security, logistics, and sustainable marine practices.
A formal trade agreement would add structure and predictability,
he stated
Nasheed stressed that trade integration should be viewed as a foundation for shared growth and trust, aligning well with the development goals of both nations.
He praised India’s economic assistance to the Maldives, particularly in light of financial challenges faced by the island nation, recognizing the aid provided by India in the USD 400 million currency swap in 2024 and key projects like the India-backed Greater Malé Connectivity Project.
He stressed that the support from India has helped the Maldives avoid economic collapse and maintain economic stability.
If not for India, we would have gone default,
Nasheed said
The defence partnership between the two countries was another area Nasheed emphasized as vital, he noted that the Maldives has historically relied on India to enhance its defence capacities and called the collaboration “essential” to regional peace and maritime safety.
Given our geographic proximity and shared strategic interests, defence cooperation is a cornerstone of our regional peace,
he remarked
Nasheed also highlighted how infrastructure projects backed by Indian credit are fostering greater connectivity, he cited the near-completion of Hanimaadhoo Airport in the north, which is expected to bring the Maldives within an hour’s reach of southern Indian cities.
There is a big opportunity for both countries to benefit, please keep coming. Keep coming to the Maldives.
he said, inviting more Indian tourists to visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations, scheduled to take place during his state visit to Male’ from July 25–26 at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
During the visit, PM Modi is expected to inaugurate several joint projects and witness the signing of a number of Memoranda of Understanding(MoU) aimed at deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
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