Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday that Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has expressed his commitment to the security-related concerns and added that both sides have agreed to move forward together. The comment of Misri came in response to a question if China was discussed during the Modi-Muizzu talks.

Speaking at a press conference, Misri noted that the security authorities from both countries maintain frequent and regular communication.

“The President expressed his commitment to the importance that the Maldives attaches to security-related issues and the commitment of both sides to continue working together,” said Vikram Misri.

VIDEO | Maldives: When asked if China featured in the Modi-Muizzu talks, MEA Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, “The President expressed his commitment to the importance that the Maldives attaches to security-related issues and the commitment of both sides to continue working… pic.twitter.com/y9PP2PElif

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“I think there is quite a high frequency of contact between the security authorities of the two countries and engagement at various levels. This remains an important issue,” he added.

He also said that India continues to work with the Maldives on any issue that might impinge upon shared interests in the region. The foreign secretary added further that a key pact inked following the talks will reduce the Maldives’ annual debt repayment to India by 40 per cent.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held extensive talks with the Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to deepen cooperation in several key areas, including trade, defence and maritime security.

India Announces Rs. 4850 Crore For Maldives

India on Friday announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit for the Maldives and agreed to finalise a free trade deal soon, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasising that New Delhi is proud to be the most trusted friend of the Indian Ocean archipelago. New Delhi also reduced the Maldives’ annual debt repayment obligations by 40 per cent (from USD 51 million to 29 million), seen as a significant move to help the country deal with its economic woes.

These measures were announced after PM Modi held extensive talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu that focused on deepening bilateral cooperation in a range of areas, including trade, defence and maritime security. The two sides sealed six pacts in the fields of fisheries and aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian pharmacopoeia, and India’s concessional line of credit to the island nation.

The outcomes of the Modi-Muizzu talks signalled a major turnaround in the relationship after a spell of unease and tension. The renewed intensity in the ties assumes significance as Muizzu came to power in November 2023 on the back of an India Out campaign.

(With inputs from PTI.)