India’s financial assistance to the Maldives, comprising loans and grants for projects, has exceeded $2 billion, with the Modi government Thursday announcing a $500 million package that includes a grant of $100 million and a $400 million line of credit.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, after a meeting with his counterpart Abdulla Shahid, also announced the creation of an air bubble with the Maldives to facilitate the movement of people from both sides for employment, tourism, medical emergencies.
“Once completed, this landmark project will streamline connectivity between the 4 islands, thereby boosting economic activity, generating employment and promoting holistic urban development in the Malé region,” the government said.
The 6.7 km bridge project connecting Male with Gulhifalhu Port & Thilafushi industrial zone will help revitalise and transform Maldivian economy, Jaishankar said in a tweet.
People aware with the GMCP said it was a key election promise of the ruling MDP for which the President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih sought India’s assistance during his meeting with Mr Jaishankar in September last year.
