Minister of External Affairs of India Sushma Swaraj has revealed in line with Indian government's neighbourhood first policy, India stands ready to fully support the Government of Maldives in its socio-economic development. Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj made the remarks in the Joint Statement issued as part of her official visit to Maldives.
In the joint statement, the external affairs minister reiterated India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with Maldives, which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity.
Meanwhile, Minster of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid noted the key role India continues to play in the socio-economic development of Maldives and thanked the Government of India for its support towards the renovation of Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), which stands as an enduring symbol of friendship between the two countries. On behalf of the government and people of India, Sushma Swaraj dedicated the renovation of IGMH to the people of Maldives and also took a tour of the building.
Furthermore, the Indian external affairs minister announced the continued support for the further development of the health sector through provision of equipment and capacity building programmes.
Recognising that people-to-people contact is a key enabler of strong, bilateral relationship, the foreign ministers welcomed the entry-into-force, on March 11, of the Agreement on Visa Facilitation. The ministers also expressed commitment to address the issues related to the welfare of their respective communities residing in both countries, including the speedy provision of consular services. They highlighted the importance of cultural cooperation in facilitating better understanding between the peoples of two countries and agreed to work on strengthening cooperation in this regard.
External Affairs Minister Sushma thanked Foreign Minister Shahid for the warm welcome and the gracious hospitality extended to her and members of her delegation during their stay in Maldives.