Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reportedly said India will continue to remain the “closest ally” to the Maldives, as the country seeks a debt relief from the Indian government.
According to NDTV, Maldives owed approximately USD 400.9 million to India by the end of 2023.
Since oath-taking, President Muizzu has been viewed to purse a hardline stand towards India, and demanded Indian military personnel in the Maldives be repatriated from the country by May 10.
On Thursday last week, President Muizzu said India was instrumental in providing aid to the Maldives, and also implemented the “greatest number” of projects as well.
During a recent interview, President Muizzu urged India to accommodate debt relief measures for the Maldives in repayment of the loans acquired over consecutive governments.
“The conditions we have inherited are such that there are very large loans taken from India. Hence, we are holding discussions to explore leniencies in the repayment structure of these loans.
“Instead of halting any ongoing projects… to proceed with them at speed, so I see no reason for any adverse effects,” President Muizzu said.