Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel are set to meet on May 26, 2025, to assess the progress of their countries' economic and maritime security partnership. This visit marks Khaleel's third trip to India this year and is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen diplomatic relations following previous tensions.
The partnership, originally outlined in a vision document signed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in October 2024, aims to enhance cooperation and security in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that Khaleel's visit is indicative of the 'intensified high-level political exchanges' between India and the Maldives.
During his three-day visit, Khaleel will lead the Maldives delegation at the second meeting of the High Level Core Group (HLCG), which is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the vision document. The MEA highlighted the significance of Maldives as a crucial maritime neighbor and a key ally in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and the vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR).
The relations between India and the Maldives faced challenges after President Muizzu's pro-China stance led to demands for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel shortly after taking office in November 2023. However, subsequent visits and diplomatic engagement signal a thaw in relations as both nations seek to bolster bilateral ties.
