Thirteen new development projects will be rolled out across the Maldives under the third phase of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), following the signing of a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the Governments of Maldives and India on Saturday.
The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflects the continuing momentum in Maldives-India bilateral cooperation. The newly signed MoUs commit a total of MVR 100 million in Indian grant assistance towards projects that aim to enhance ferry services, improve inter-island connectivity, and strengthen the livelihoods of local communities.
Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel signed on behalf of the Maldives, while Indian High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian represented the Government of India. Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen also signed on behalf of the Implementing Agency.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel described India’s contributions as “meaningful, purposeful, and aligned with the needs of the Maldivian people.” He noted that the projects go beyond physical infrastructure, describing them as “lifelines” tailored to community needs, with the potential to bring about lasting socio-economic benefits.
Transport Minister Ameen echoed this sentiment, stating that the high-speed ferry network, a flagship project under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, is progressing ahead of schedule. Initially planned for completion in 2027, the project is now expected to be finalised by the end of this year. With 81 islands across nine atolls already connected, the new MoUs are expected to further expand this network.
Minister Khaleel also expressed gratitude to the Indian government, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his “personal commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation,” and Foreign Minister Dr S. Jaishankar for his continued support. He also acknowledged the efforts of High Commissioner Balasubramanian and his team for their work in deepening bilateral ties.
The announcement of Phase III of the HICDP scheme was made during President Muizzu’s state visit to India in October last year. Saturday’s signing was attended by senior officials from both governments, reaffirming the two nations’ shared commitment to community-focused development.
