External Affairs Minister Jaishankar said, “India will continue to be a steadfast supporter of Maldives’ progress and prosperity, in line with our Neighbourhood First policy and vision SAGAR.”

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said India has always stood by the Maldives, adding the Indian Ocean archipelago is a concrete expression of New Delhi's ''Neighbourhood First'' policy.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the significance of the Maldives in India's neighbourhood first policy and New Delhi's financial aid to the island nation. Bilateral talks focused on economic and maritime security partnerships,

India and the Maldives have finalised a framework to promote the use of local currencies for cross border trade as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussions with his counterpart from the island nation Abdulla Khaleel to improve the relationship.

Jaishankar made the remarks at a meeting with his Maldivian counterpart Abdulla Khaleel in Delhi. Khaleel arrived in New Delhi on January 2 on a three-day visit to explore ways to bolster bilateral ties in several key areas including maritime security,

Abdulla Khaleel said there were “many examples” of the Indian government consistently standing by the Maldives “as an immediate responder in times of need

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held a meeting with Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel and emphasised the strong bilateral ties between India and the Maldives. Jaishankar during his opening remarks noted key developments such as the signing of a framework to facilitate local currency use for cross-border transactions and increased collaboration across various sectors.