India announces $1.4 billion aid to Maldives

Modi says at a joint press conference with Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih that both sides were connected by mutual faith in democracy and development.

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih being greeted by President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the ceremonial Reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday. Photo R V Moorthy

India on Monday declared an aid of $1.4 billion to the Maldives. The financial package that was prepared over the last month was formally announced at a joint press conference held by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of the Maldives and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mr. Modi said both sides were connected by mutual faith in democracy and development. “Cooperation between our countries is necessary for maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean region and we are willing to take our bilateral relationship to its fullest extent.”

India would be there to support the Maldives in its human-oriented development plans. New Delhi would also support Male in improving connectivity links between the two nations.

In response, President Solih said his government would walk the path of cooperation and development. His discussion with India covered a wide swath of issues such as health, education, and defence, he noted.

India hads agreed to a prime-ministerial visit to Male next year, he said.

Upon arrival, Mr. Solih had thanked India and described it as the “closest friend” of his country.

On Monday, both sides signed four agreements.