From May 25–27, 2025, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, visited India to reinforce the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership between the two nations. This visit, aligning with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, underscored the deep ties between India and Maldives, focusing on enhancing cooperation in economic, security, and people-to-people domains.
Key Engagements During the Visit
On May 26, 2025, Dr. Khaleel led the Maldivian delegation at the 2nd India-Maldives High Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting in New Delhi. The meeting reviewed progress on the India-Maldives Vision Document, emphasizing intensified political exchanges, defence and security cooperation, development partnerships, trade and economy, health, and people-to-people linkages. Both nations committed to implementing the Joint Vision to strengthen bilateral ties and address shared regional challenges. Dr. Khaleel also held bilateral discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, focusing on mutual interests and exploring avenues to deepen cooperation. The talks highlighted the importance of Maldives as India’s key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region.
Solidarity Against Terrorism
During the visit, Dr. Khaleel strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack of April 2025, expressing Maldives’ firm solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism in all its forms. He reaffirmed Maldives’ support for India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, emphasizing the need for global cooperation to counter such threats. This stance strengthens the security partnership between the two nations, a critical component of their bilateral relationship.
Acknowledgment of India’s Support
Dr. Khaleel expressed gratitude for India’s timely emergency financial assistance to Maldives, which has significantly improved the everyday lives of Maldivians. This assistance underscores India’s role as a reliable partner in supporting Maldives’ economic stability and development, aligning with the goals of Vision MAHASAGAR—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
Future Cooperation
The visit concluded with an agreement to hold the 3rd HLCG meeting in Malé, Maldives, on mutually convenient dates. This decision reflects the commitment to sustain high-level dialogue and ensure the steady implementation of the Joint Vision. The partnership aims to foster maritime security, economic growth, and regional stability through continued collaboration.
The visit of Dr. Abdulla Khaleel marks a significant step in strengthening the India-Maldives partnership. As a key maritime neighbour, Maldives plays a pivotal role in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR. The discussions during the visit reinforced cooperation in critical areas such as maritime security, economic development, and counter-terrorism. The partnership not only enhances bilateral ties but also contributes to regional stability in the Indian Ocean Region, aligning with India’s broader foreign policy objectives.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
The visit of the Maldives Foreign Minister to India is a crucial development for students preparing for competitive exams, as it highlights India’s foreign policy priorities, regional security dynamics, and bilateral relations with Maldives. Understanding the context of the HLCG meeting, Vision MAHASAGAR, and India’s response to the Pahalgam attack provides valuable insights into current affairs and international relations.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Visit of Maldives Foreign Minister to India |
| Date | May 25–27, 2025 |
| Key Figure | H.E. Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Maldives Foreign Minister |
| Key Meeting | 2nd India-Maldives High Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting |
| Focus Areas | Political exchanges, defence, maritime security, trade, health, people-to-people linkages |
| Terrorism Stance | Maldives condemned Pahalgam attack (April 2025), supports India’s anti-terrorism policy |
| India’s Support | Emergency financial assistance to Maldives |
| Policy Frameworks | Neighbourhood First, Vision MAHASAGAR |