Maldives and India marked six decades of diplomatic relations on Monday with a symbolic tree planting ceremony in Hulhumale’.
The event, held at Central Park, saw 60 trees planted to represent the 60 years since formal ties were established in 1965. Organised by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) in collaboration with the Foreign Ministry and the Indian High Commission, the initiative highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two countries and their shared commitment to environmental cooperation.
Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, Indian High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian, and HDC Managing Director Brigadier General (Rtd) Ali Zuhair led the ceremony. HDC noted that environmental activities remain a central priority for the corporation, with the aim of making Hulhumale’ greener and more liveable for residents.
The initiative also forms part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s national campaign to plant five million trees over five years, launched on World Environment Day in 2024. HDC has pledged to contribute one million trees towards this effort.
India was among the first nations to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives following its independence in July 1965. To mark the 60th anniversary, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a state visit to Malé earlier this year and attended the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations.
The tree planting programme in Hulhumale’ reflects both countries’ focus on strengthening bilateral ties while advancing shared environmental goals.
