Amid strained relations between Male and New Delhi, with a growing Chinese influence, Maldives has expressed gratitude to India for permitting limited exports of essential commodities, such as sugar, wheat, rice, and onions.
In a statement shared on X platform, Maldives’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer conveyed appreciation on behalf of the island nation. India, known as a key exporter of rice, sugar, and onions, has enforced various restrictions on the export of these food items to stabilize local prices ahead of this month’s Lok Sabha elections.
Under the notification issued by the government, shipments of these commodities in the 2024/25 financial year, commencing from April 1, to Maldives “will be exempted from any existing or future restriction/prohibition on export.”
Zameer expressed sincere gratitude to India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and the Indian government for renewing the quota, enabling Maldives to import essential commodities during 2024 and 2025. He hailed this gesture as a testament to the enduring friendship and a strong commitment to enhance bilateral trade and commerce between the two countries.
Responding to the gratitude, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s dedication to its “neighbourhood first” and SAGAR policies.
In a significant move, India has permitted exports of various commodities, including rice, wheat flour, sugar, potatoes, onions, and eggs to the Maldives, along with stone aggregate and river sand.
The Maldives, traditionally maintaining close ties with India, has seen a shift towards Beijing since the election of President Mohamed Muizzu in October, who pledged to alter the country’s pro-India stance.
