We Firmly Support India against Terrorism: Maldives to India
In a strong display of solidarity, Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel has unequivocally condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack, stating that Maldives stands firmly in support of India in the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. This statement comes amidst a three-day visit to India, where the Maldivian Foreign Minister met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss ways to strengthen defence, trade, and maritime ties between the two nations.
The Pahalgam terror attack, which took place on May 10, 2022, resulted in the death of three Indian soldiers and left several others injured. The attack was carried out by terrorists who infiltrated the area, and the Indian Army has launched a massive operation to track down the perpetrators.
In the wake of this incident, the Maldivian Foreign Minister’s statement is a significant development, as it underscores the strong ties of friendship and cooperation between India and Maldives in the face of terrorism. Maldives, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, has long been a key partner for India in the region, and this statement reflects the deepening of this partnership.
During his meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Maldivian Foreign Minister emphasized the need for intensified cooperation between the two nations to combat terrorism. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the attack and reaffirmed Maldives’ commitment to standing together with India in the fight against terrorism.
The strengthening of defence ties between India and Maldives is a significant aspect of their bilateral relations. Maldives has been a key focus area for India’s Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen economic and strategic ties with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The two nations have already collaborated on several defence projects, including the establishment of a joint military training facility in the Maldives.
In addition to defence ties, India and Maldives have also been working together to strengthen trade and economic relations. Maldives is an important trading partner for India, with bilateral trade valued at over $200 million in 2020-21. The two nations have also been exploring opportunities for cooperation in areas such as tourism, healthcare, and education.
The Maldivian Foreign Minister’s visit to India comes at a time when both nations are seeking to deepen their strategic partnership. India and Maldives have been working together to promote regional security and stability, and the Maldivian Foreign Minister’s statement on terrorism is a significant development in this context.
In recent years, India has been working to strengthen its regional partnerships to counter the growing threat of terrorism in the Indian Ocean region. Maldives has been a key focus area for India’s efforts, given its strategic location in the region and its vulnerability to terrorist threats.
The Maldivian Foreign Minister’s statement on terrorism is also significant in the context of the growing threat of Islamic State (IS) and other terrorist groups in the region. IS has been seeking to establish a foothold in the Maldives, and India has been working closely with the Maldivian government to counter this threat.
In conclusion, the Maldivian Foreign Minister’s statement on terrorism is a significant development in the context of India-Maldives relations. It reflects the deepening of the partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. As India and Maldives continue to strengthen their defence, trade, and maritime ties, this statement serves as a powerful symbol of their commitment to regional security and stability.
