The second meeting of the High-Level Core Group (HLCG) between India and the Maldives was held in New Delhi, advancing bilateral discussions across a broad spectrum of strategic and developmental issues. The Maldivian delegation was led by His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, who engaged with senior Indian officials to reinforce the evolving partnership between the two nations.
This meeting built upon the foundation laid during the inaugural HLCG session in Malé on January 29, 2025. That first meeting initiated structured dialogue under the joint vision document titled “India and Maldives: A Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership”, which was formulated following the October 2024 meeting between President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Delegates from both sides held comprehensive and constructive discussions covering multiple pillars of cooperation. These included transport and connectivity, agriculture, fisheries, trade and economic initiatives, healthcare, capacity building, training programs, and enhanced people-to-people linkages. Key emphasis was placed on bolstering defense and security collaboration, especially in light of the Maldives’ critical location in the Indian Ocean and ongoing regional maritime challenges.
The Maldivian delegation included senior officials from several ministries and agencies, such as the President’s Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, Ministry of Finance and Planning, and the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology. Their wide-ranging participation reflected a comprehensive and whole-of-government approach to deepening ties with India.
India reaffirmed its view of the Maldives as a vital maritime neighbor and strategic partner in the Indian Ocean Region. The talks also carried a message of reconciliation and forward momentum, coming after a year of diplomatic tensions spurred by President Muizzu’s early anti-India rhetoric and pro-China overtures.
Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which claimed several lives, the Maldives expressed strong solidarity with India. Foreign Minister Khaleel reiterated his country’s unequivocal support for India’s fight against terrorism and emphasized regional cooperation on security matters.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs noted that the ongoing HLCG meetings serve as a key platform to enhance collaboration, accelerate joint projects, and maintain regional stability. The Core Group agreed to hold its next meeting in Malé at a mutually convenient time, with both nations committed to operationalizing their shared vision for peace, prosperity, and partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.
