00:00 The Foreign Minister of Maldives, Musa Zameer has expressed gratitude towards India for
00:08 its decision to increase the export of essential supplies to the Maldives for the fiscal year
00:13 2024-25.
00:14 Despite existing diplomatic tensions between the two nations, this move reflects a deep-rooted
00:19 friendship and commitment to bolster bilateral trade relations.
00:23 In a post on social media platform MEXT, Minister Zameer conveyed his sincere appreciation to
00:28 India's External Affairs Minister S.J. Shankar and the Government of India for renewing the
00:32 quota allowing the Maldives to import essential commodities from India over the next two years.
00:39 Musa emphasised that this gesture symbolises the enduring friendship between the two nations
00:43 and underscores their mutual dedication to enhance trade and commerce ties.
00:48 India's decision to lift restrictions on the export of essential items to the Maldives
00:52 is significant given the prevailing tensions in the region.
00:56 Despite geopolitical complexities, India's "Neighbourhood First" policy remains steadfast,
01:00 prioritising cooperation and support for neighbouring countries.
01:04 This move also reflects India's strategic interest in countering growing external influences,
01:09 particularly China's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean region.
01:13 According to a statement issued by the High Commission in the Maldives, the Indian Government
01:18 acceded to the Maldives' request and revised upward the quota for essential commodities
01:23 for the fiscal year 2024-25.
01:26 This bilateral mechanism, established back in 1981, has witnessed the highest approved
01:31 quantities of essential items to date.
01:34 The decision underscores India's commitment to nurture strong economic ties and ensure
01:38 well-being of its neighbour.
01:40 In response to the Minister Zameer's appreciation, even External Affairs Minister S.J. Shankar
01:45 reaffirmed India's unwavering commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" and "Sagar"
01:49 policy.
01:50 A 25 per cent rise in supply amounting to 10 lakh metric tonne reflects India's support
01:55 for the Maldives' infrastructure development.
01:58 Additionally, essential food items include egg, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, wheat,
02:03 flour, pulses and other will also see a 5 per cent increase in export limit, further
02:08 contributing to food security in Maldives.
02:12 This development, as mentioned before, comes amid diplomatic road triggered by derogatory
02:15 remarks made by three Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India.
02:20 Despite these challenges, both nations are committed to resolve differences through dialogue
02:24 and cooperation.
02:25 However, the tensions have escalated with the Maldivian government's directive for
02:28 Indian troops to leave the country by 10th of May, a move that could strain bilateral
02:33 relations further.
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