External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has commenced a three-day official visit to the Maldives today. The visit aims to reinforce the strong partnership between India and the Maldives and to explore new avenues for advancing bilateral relations. This trip follows the recent visit of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to India in June for the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet and Council of Ministers.

The Maldives, a crucial maritime neighbour of India, holds a strategic position in the Indian Ocean. It has been a significant partner in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the ‘SAGAR’ vision—Security and Growth for All in the Region. During his visit, Dr Jaishankar is expected to focus on enhancing this partnership, discovering new areas of cooperation, and addressing any concerns that have arisen over the past year.