India assured the new democratic Maldivian Government led by President Mohamed Nasheed help in overcoming over the current financial crisis, which includes depleting foreign exchange reserves. This includes steps to diversify strong bilateral ties.
Indian Vice-President Hamid Ansari held talks with Nasheed in the presidential office after attending the swearing-in ceremony. Mr. Ansari congratulated the new President and invited him to visit India soon. He lauded smooth democratic transition in the country. The Maldives President, in turn, affirmed his determination to maintain continuity in relations in all manner and in all areas.
“The Maldives President suggested some new ideas based on five electoral pledges he has given to the people in areas like energy, science and technology, IT, health and education. India assured full support to the new government,” said Mr. Dinesh K. Jain, special secretary in the Indian external affairs ministry.
The island nation has also approached New Delhi’s help in building a nationwide transport network and has invited Indian companies to participate in an international tender that will be floated soon. The transport system will be vital in a country where over 200,000 people are scattered in nearly 200 islands and use ferry service to get from one place to another.
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