Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam’s first official visit to India has placed renewed attention on the Maldives’ relationship with one of its closest regional partners, as both countries look to maintain cooperation across bilateral and multilateral areas.
Minister Iruthisham held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar, during the visit, which was undertaken at his invitation. The meeting focused on the longstanding partnership between the Maldives and India, as well as priority areas of mutual interest.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to continue working closely, including through bilateral engagement and cooperation in international fora. The discussions also covered existing cooperation between the two countries.
Minister Iruthisham acknowledged the close ties between the Maldives and India and expressed appreciation for ongoing socio-economic development projects supported through Indian grant assistance and line of credit initiatives.
Following the meeting, Dr Jaishankar said he was pleased to meet Minister Iruthisham during her first official visit to India. He also referred to India’s Neighbourhood First policy and said the two sides had reviewed bilateral cooperation, while reaffirming India’s commitment to the Maldives’ progress and development.
The visit comes as both countries continue to manage a broad relationship covering development cooperation, regional engagement and diplomatic coordination. For the Maldives, India remains a major partner in infrastructure, social development and external assistance, making the meeting an important early engagement for Minister Iruthisham in her new role.
