India and Maldives Strengthen Economic Ties with High-Level Talks in Malé

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening trade and investment ties during high-level discussions held in Malé on Friday, July 5.

The meeting between India’s Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal and Maldivian Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed focused on enhancing economic collaboration and identifying new areas for partnership. The discussion took place at the Maldivian Ministry of Economic Development and was part of Barthwal’s official visit.

Following the meeting, Minister Saeed shared on X:

“Had a productive meeting today with India’s Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal. We discussed strengthening trade and investment partnerships between our nations and exploring new opportunities for economic cooperation.”

India’s Department of Commerce also echoed the sentiment, describing the talks as “constructive,” with an emphasis on expanding bilateral trade and investment.

To further attract Indian investment, the Maldives has recently held business forums in three Indian cities, showcasing emerging opportunities for Indian companies.

India remains a major development partner for the Maldives, backing several infrastructure and capacity-building projects. New Delhi has also provided a USD 25.94 million currency swap facility to help stabilize the Maldivian economy.

This meeting builds upon momentum from earlier visits, including the May 26 trip to New Delhi by Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel, and follows the agreements made during President Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024, where he pledged to strengthen ties despite earlier tensions in the relationship.

India considers the Maldives a key maritime neighbour and a critical partner under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, which aims for mutual security and growth across the Indian Ocean region.