The Maldives and India have signed 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) to initiate projects funded under Indian grant assistance as part of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP).
During the ceremony, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid emphasized the strengthened relations between the Maldives and India, demonstrated by high-level visits to both countries. He also expressed gratitude for India's support in the Maldives' efforts to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic through vaccine assistance and other forms of aid. Minister Shahid highlighted India's role as a strong ally in the administration's initiative to develop the atolls.
Minister of State for External Affairs of India V. Muraleedharan stated that India takes pride in being an important partner in the Maldives' development journey. He expressed satisfaction in seeing the projects funded through loans, grants, and budgetary support from India benefiting Maldivian communities.
During the ceremony, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel and High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Munu Mahawar exchanged MoUs for various projects. These included the development of an arts center in Male', a running track in Milandhoo, the construction of a new council office in Hinnavaru, and the establishment of a mental health unit at Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital. Other MoUs covered the procurement of school buses for Fuvahmulah City, Kulhudhuffushi City, Kendhikulhudhoo, and Gan, the development of outdoor gyms in Hithadhoo, Vaadhoo, and Dhidhdhoo, as well as the school digitalization program in Laamu Atoll Education Centre.
Minister Shahid and State Minister Muraleedharan also witnessed the gifting of anti-tuberculosis (TB) medication to the Ministry of Health, which was received by Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakuru.