Relations between India and Maldives have become tense due to China's increasing influence in Maldives. But, India is not taking any action against Maldives. Foreign Minister of Maldives Musa Zameer has expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Indian External Affairs Minister and the Government of India for allowing export of essential goods to Maldives under the quota. After this approval, Musa Zameer described it as a symbol of 'long-term friendship'.
Maldivian Foreign Minister Musa Zameer posted on micro blogging site Twitter (X) and wrote, 'I am Foreign Minister Dr. S. Heartfelt thanks to Jaishankar. The Government of India has renewed the quota to enable Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture that symbolizes the long-standing friendship between our two countries.
Export of sand and stone will increase
The Indian High Commission in Maldives has also posted on Facebook regarding this agreement between India and Maldives. The High Commission has posted that the quota for all goods exported from India to Maldives has been increased. This system, which has been in place since 1981, has seen the highest increase this year. The construction industry in the Maldives has been booming recently, so the amount of river sand and stone has increased by 25 percent to 1 million metric tons.
5 percent more export of food items
The quota of egg, potato, onion, sugar, rice, flour and pulses has been increased by 5 percent. Last year, India continued to export rice, sugar and onions to Maldives despite the international ban. The Indian High Commission in Maldives has said in its statement that India is continuously exporting essential goods to Maldives under the 'Neighborhood First' policy. In fact, after Mohammed Muizzu became the President, relations between India and Maldives have become tense. Because Muizzu is seen as a pro-China leader.