Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer expressed his gratitude to India on Saturday for its decision to increase the export of essential supplies to the island nation for the fiscal year 2024-25, despite ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
In a post on X, Zameer described the gesture as a demonstration of the "longstanding friendship" between India and the Maldives, as well as a strong commitment to expanding bilateral trade and commerce.
"I sincerely thank EAM @DrSJaishankar and the Government of India for the renewal of the quota to enable Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025," he wrote.
"This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between our two countries," he added.
India's decision to lift the restriction on the export of essential items to the Maldives underscores its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, despite growing tensions. This move comes amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean region, particularly regarding China's increasing influence and the 'India Out' campaign led by the Mohamed Muizzu administration in the Maldives.
A statement released by the Indian High Commission in the Maldives highlighted the significant increase in export quotas for crucial commodities such as river sand and stone aggregates, which are essential for the Maldives' construction sector. Additionally, there's a boost in the export limits for essential food items like eggs, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, wheat flour, and pulses.
In response to Zameer's tweet, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies.
"You are welcome FM @MoosaZameer. India stands firmly committed to its Neighbourhood First and SAGAR policies," Jaishankar wrote on X on Saturday.
Despite the diplomatic row sparked by derogatory remarks made by three Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's decision to increase essential exports to the Maldives signals a continued effort to maintain positive relations and support the Maldivian economy.
