India-Maldives Sign MoU Introducing UPI, Strengthen Bilateral Ties

10 Aug 2024

India and Maldives have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his official visit to Maldives, announced that this move will positively impact the Maldives' tourism sector. UPI Introduction and Expected Benefits The agreement,...

President Muizzu Thanks India Aid Amid Maldives’ Economic Challenges

29 Jul 2024

President Mohamed Muizzu expressed gratitude to India for its support in strengthening the Maldives’ fragile economy, emphasizing the collaboration between the two countries in addressing the Island nation’s looming debt crisis and future development. Speaking at the 59th anniversary of the country’s independence, Muizzu also acknowledged China's significant role in...

India Seeking Free Trade Agreement With Island Nation, Says Maldives Minister

26 May 2024

India has initiated efforts to establish a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Maldives, as confirmed by Maldivian Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed. Addressing a press conference in Male, Saeed highlighted that discussions regarding the Free Trade Deal are currently underway. "They (India) want there to be...

‘Indian tourists have been a crucial market’, Says FM of Maldives

09 May 2024

The Foreign Minister of Maldives, Moosa Zameer, expressed optimism regarding the decline in Indian tourist figures, highlighting the country's enduring appeal and potential for growth in tourism. Zameer acknowledged the recent decrease in Indian tourist numbers but emphasized the welcoming attitude of Maldives towards Indian travelers. He cited the ongoing...

Jaishankar Stresses ‘Neighbourhood First’ with Maldives FM Visit

09 May 2024

The Foreign Ministers of India and Maldives recently convened in New Delhi, marking a significant step in reinvigorating bilateral relations between the neighboring nations. This meeting, the first since relations faced challenges, underscored the importance of mutual interests and reciprocal sensitivity in shaping diplomatic ties. India's External Affairs Minister, Dr....

Maldives FM Moosa Zameer To Visit India On May 9

08 May 2024

In the midst of a diplomatic standoff, the Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is scheduled for an official visit to India on Thursday, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs. The statement further outlines that during the visit, Minister Zameer will engage in discussions with External Affairs Minister S...

India, Maldives Trade Talks Amid Diplomatic Tensions

02 May 2024

During a diplomatic dispute between the two nations, the Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, Manu Mahawar, convened a discussion with the Maldivian Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, to explore prospective avenues for trade and economic collaboration. Maldives Ministry of Economic Development and Trade posted information about...

Maldives: Indian Tourist Numbers Plummet by 33% Amid Diplomatic Tensions

09 Mar 2024

Indian tourist arrivals in the Maldives have decreased by 33 percent compared to last year, as per data from the Maldives Tourism Ministry reported by Maldivian website Adhadhu. This decline coincides with the ongoing diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Male. According to the Tourism Ministry's 2023 statistics, 41,054 Indian...

Lakshadweep Plans Tourism Expansion Amid Diplomatic Tensions with Maldives

10 Jan 2024

Amid diplomatic tensions stemming from disparaging remarks made by Maldivian ministers and officials against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep, the administration of the Indian archipelago has revealed plans to expand its tourism activities. Social media posts by Maldivian junior ministers and officials sparked outrage online, leading to...

Maldives Tourism Body Urges EaseMyTrip to Resume Bookings Amid India-Maldives Row

10 Jan 2024

Amid a diplomatic row between India and the Maldives, the Maldives Association of Tour and Travel Operators (MATATO) has extended an appeal to EaseMyTrip, an India-based travel aggregator, urging the platform to reinstate flight bookings to the picturesque island nation. The plea underscores the vital role of Indian tourists in...