'Thank you India': Maldives on allowing export of essential goods; Jaishankar reacts

PTc Web Desk: Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer has expressed gratitude towards India for its decision to increase the export of essential supplies to the island nation for the fiscal year 2024-25, despite diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Moosa Zameer highlighted the significance of India's gesture, emphasising the enduring friendship between the two nations and the shared commitment to fostering bilateral trade relations.

He said, "I sincerely thank EAM @DrSJaishankar and the Government of India for the renewal of the quota to enable Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between our two countries."

The Indian government's decision to lift restrictions on the export of essential items to the Maldives, despite escalating tensions, underscores its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. This move is particularly noteworthy amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean region, fueled by concerns over China's expanding influence and the 'India Out' campaign spearheaded by the Mohamed Muizzu administration in the Maldives.

A statement issued by the Indian High Commission in the Maldives elaborated on the Centre's decision to enhance the export of crucial goods, stating, "Upon the request of the Government of Maldives, the Government of India has allowed for export of certain quantities of essential commodities for the year 2024-25 under a unique bilateral mechanism, wherein, the quotas for each of these items have been revised upwards. The approved quantities are the highest since this arrangement came into effect in 1981."

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded to Zameer's appreciation, reaffirming India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies. He stated on social media platform X, "You are welcome FM @MoosaZameer. India stands firmly committed to its Neighbourhood First and SAGAR policies."

The revised export quotas signify a significant increase in the supply of critical commodities, including river sand and stone aggregates, which are essential for the Maldives' construction sector. There has been a 25 per cent increase in the export limits for these commodities, amounting to 10 lakh metric tonnes. Additionally, there is a 5 per cent increase in the export limits for essential food items such as eggs, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, wheat flour, and pulses.

This decision comes amid a diplomatic dispute triggered by the suspension of three Maldivian ministers for derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The controversy erupted after Prime Minister Modi promoted Lakshadweep as a tourist destination. Muizzu, perceived as a pro-China leader, has issued a directive for all Indian troops stationed in the Maldives to depart by May 10.

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