The Governments of Maldives and India have signed 13 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for projects under Phase III of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), funded through Indian grant assistance. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking a significant step forward in the growing partnership between the two nations.
These 13 new projects, with a total grant value of MVR 100 million, are focused on improving ferry services across the Maldives, enhancing inter-island connectivity, and boosting community livelihoods.
The MoUs were signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel on behalf of the Government of Maldives, and Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, Mr. G. Balasubramanian, representing the Government of India. Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen, signed on behalf of the implementing agency.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel described India’s assistance as consistently meaningful and aligned with the real needs of the Maldivian people. He noted that the projects go beyond infrastructure—they serve as essential lifelines for local communities, bringing long-term socio-economic benefits. He expressed optimism that the successful completion of these projects would further strengthen cooperation and friendship between the two countries.
Minister Ameen highlighted the rapid progress of the nationwide high-speed ferry network, which currently connects 81 islands across 9 atolls. He stated that the newly signed MoUs will help expand these services even further, reinforcing strong bilateral ties. Although the network was originally scheduled for completion by 2027, it is now expected to be finalized by the end of this year, in line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to fast-track development.
Both ministers expressed deep appreciation to the Government of India for its generous support and the transformative impact it has had on Maldivian communities. Minister Khaleel extended his heartfelt thanks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his personal commitment to advancing Maldives-India cooperation. He also acknowledged Indian Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, and High Commissioner Balasubramanian and his team for their continued dedication to strengthening bilateral relations.
The announcement of Phase III of the HICDP was initially made during President Dr. Muizzu’s State Visit to India last October. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from both the Government of Maldives and the High Commission of India.