Maldives interested in increasing regional presence, says president

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the Maldives is interested in playing a more active role in regional affairs.

The president made the statement during a special ceremony held to initiate four key development projects between Maldives and India.

President Solih and Prime Minister Narenda Modi inaugurated the projects via a live video conference on Wednesday evening.

The president opened his speech by recognizing the Indian prime minister's personal commitment to bolstering ties between the two countries.

He went on to highlight the strong connection between India and the Maldives due to the geographical link between the two countries, claiming that ties between India and Maldives have fortified during joint efforts to preserve the safety and security of the Indian ocean that connects both the nations.

Likewise, he noted that the in-shore patrol vessel, Coast Guard Ship Kaamiyaab, gifted by the Indian government will be essential in protecting maritime borders and decreasing response time in emergencies.

President Solih further declared the establishment of fish processing plants in Addu is part of efforts to fulfill his electoral pledges. He explained that the fish processing plant will have a net result of increasing household income. Hence, he thanked the Indian government for their contribution to achieving these goals.

Moreover, he emphasized the positive impact the introduction of the Rupay Card will have on the Maldivian tourism industry as it provides a more convenient payment option for Indian tourists and increases the likelihood of visits.

Additionally, President Solih addressed the issue of climate change, declaring that the Maldives is working towards “climate-smart resilient islands” by transitioning to renewable energy. He stated that the agreement signed with the Indian company, Energy Efficiency Services Limited, is a central component in achieving that objective.

In his concluding remarks, the president reiterated the Maldives' commitment to bolstering bilateral ties with India including fostering cooperation for maritime security and commercial prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.

Furthermore, President Solih went on to state that the Maldives is interested in building ties, not only with India but within the entire Indian Ocean region.

Since President Solih's government took over in November 2018, relations with India have been observably and equally improving. This is evident by the numerous agreements and projects initiated by the two countries within the past year.

As such, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's inauguration last November, and Solih's maiden trip abroad was to India.