Maldives is very concrete expression of India's neighbourhood first policy

INDIA PLEDGES SUPPORT TO MALDIVES TO HELP IT NAVIGATE ECONOMIC ISSUES

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

NEW DELHI: The Maldives is a "very concrete" expression of India's neighbourhood first policy, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, pledging New Delhi's support the Indian Ocean archipelago as its economy is reeling under some stress.

In his opening remarks at the meeting with Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel, Jaishankar noted finalisation of a framework to promote the use of local currencies for cross border trade between India and Maldives and listed New Delhi's financial assistance to Male to help it deal with economic issues.

Both sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding for implementation of high impact community development projects under phase-III in Maldives through grant assistance from India.

In his comments, Khaleel reaffirmed President Mohamed Muizzu's firm commitment to work closely with New Delhi in realising the joint vision for India-Maldives comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership.

Khaleel arrived here on Thursday on a three-day visit to explore ways to bolster bilateral ties in several key areas including trade and investment.