Maldives thankful to India for import of essential commodities amidst bilateral tensions

New Delhi, Apr 06: The Foreign Minister of Maldives Moosa Zameer expressed gratitude to the Government of India for their large heartedness in allowing the renewal of imports of essential commodities to Maldives. In a message on “X” stated, "I sincerely thank EAM @DrSjaishankar and the Government of #India for the renewal of the quota to enable #Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the year 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between the two countries."

In response, the Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar remarked, "You are welcome FM @MoosaZameer. India stands firmly committed to its neighbourhood First and SAGAR policies."

Regarding the approval of the highest-ever export quotas for essential commodities to the Maldives, despite growing tension and China's presence, the High Commission of India in Maldives stated, "Upon the request of the Government of Maldives, the Government of India has allowed for export of certain quantities of essential commodities for the year 2024-25 under a unique bilateral mechanism, wherein, the quotas for each of these items have been revised upwards. The approved quantities are the highest since this arrangement came into effect in 1981."

Highlighting the specifics, the High Commission mentioned, "The quota for river sand and stone aggregates, crucial items for the booming construction industry in the Maldives, has been increased by 25% to 1,000,000 MT

Regarding essential commodities, they stated, "There have also been an increase of 5 per cent in the quotas for eggs, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, wheat flour and dal (pulses)."

The document shared on social media by the High Commission mentioned the quantities of various items allowed for export, including rice, wheat flour, sugar, potatoes, onions, and eggs.

The continuation of exports under the bilateral agreement was emphasized, stating, "Export of these items to the Maldives will be exempted from any existing or future restrictions during 2024 and 2025." Clarification regarding the continuity of onion exports from India to Maldives was provided, ensuring uninterrupted supply.

Earlier exports despite the worldwide ban were highlighted, with the High Commission adding, "India remains strongly committed to supporting human-centric development in the Maldives, as part of its 'Neighbourhood First' policy."