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India-Maldives Relations
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Details
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Historical and Cultural Connections
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- The historical and cultural ties between India and the Maldives date back centuries, with both nations sharing maritime trade routes and cultural exchanges.
- The Maldives’ strategic location along key maritime routes has always made it a significant partner for India in the Indian Ocean region.
- These ancient connections have laid the foundation for a strong bilateral relationship, characterized by warmth and mutual understanding.
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Economic Engagement and Development Cooperation
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- India has been a key partner in the economic development of the Maldives, contributing to infrastructure, healthcare, and education projects.
- Bilateral trade between the two countries is buoyant, with India being one of the Maldives’ main trade partners.
- India’s assistance has been crucial in several development projects in the Maldives, including housing, water supply, and sanitation projects.
- Moreover, India has extended financial assistance to the Maldives during economic crises, exemplifying the depth of their partnership.
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Strategic and Security Cooperation
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- The strategic dimensions of the India-Maldives relationship are significant, with both countries keen on ensuring maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
- India has played a pivotal role in the Maldives’ security, assisting in surveillance, maritime patrol, and capacity building of the Maldives National Defence Force.
- The security dialogue encompasses a wide array of issues, including counter-terrorism, counter-piracy, and non-traditional security threats, underscoring the comprehensive nature of their strategic partnership.
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Environmental and Climate Change Collaboration
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- Given their shared vulnerability to climate change, India and the Maldives have cooperated on environmental conservation and climate action.
- Both nations have engaged in dialogue and projects aimed at sustainable development, renewable energy, and disaster preparedness, recognizing the existential threat posed by rising sea levels and global warming.
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Challenges and Perspectives
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- While the relationship between India and the Maldives is largely positive, it has navigated through periods of tension, primarily influenced by the Maldives’ internal political dynamics and external geopolitical interests.
- The presence and influence of external powers in the Indian Ocean have occasionally tested the resilience of India-Maldives ties.
- However, the overarching trend has been towards strengthening bilateral relations, with both nations prioritizing their strategic partnership.
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Recent Developments and Future Trajectory
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- In recent years, high-level visits and exchanges between India and the Maldives have underscored the mutual desire to enhance cooperation.
- India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy aligns with the Maldives’ “India-First” policy, creating a conducive framework for advancing their bilateral agenda.
- The COVID-19 pandemic saw India extending timely assistance to the Maldives, further solidifying their friendship and cooperation.
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