The inauguration of a new runway at Hanimadhoo International Airport in the Maldives, part of an airport redevelopment project supported by India, alongside the official launch of the RuPay card in the nation on October 7, 2024, aims to enhance economic and tourism ties between the two countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly inaugurated the runway via a virtual event, where they also observed a live transaction using the RuPay payment service.
This event followed extensive discussions between the leaders, during which President Muizzu stated they aimed to “chart a new path for future collaboration.”
Accompanied by First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed and a delegation, President Muizzu arrived in India the evening before. Although he attended PM Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June, this marked his first official bilateral visit to India.
Before the launch, a short video detailing various India-assisted projects in the Maldives was presented to the leaders at Hyderabad House. The video emphasized the deep-rooted historical ties between India and the Maldives, highlighting their shared heritage of trade and cultural exchange.
Over the years, this relationship has evolved, characterized by “mutual respect and unwavering support,” as noted in the video, which also referenced India’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR vision. India has consistently been the first responder in the Maldives during crises.
According to the video, under the leadership of both Prime Minister Modi and President Muizzu, the partnership is set to reach new heights. The launch of the RuPay card is expected to facilitate cashless transactions for Indian tourists, enhancing convenience and reducing costs in the Maldives’ tourism sector.
The new runway inauguration represents a significant milestone in the airport’s expansion, which is being funded by an Indian Line of Credit of $132 million. This redevelopment will provide comprehensive new infrastructure, including a runway, air traffic control tower, ARFF block, hangar, cargo facilities, and passenger terminal.
In his statement following their discussions, Prime Minister Modi remarked that President Muizzu’s visit adds “another chapter to our ties.” After the talks, India also handed over 700 social housing units to the Maldives, built under the EXIM Bank’s buyer’s credit facilities.
The meeting allowed both leaders to comprehensively review the full spectrum of bilateral relations, noting the progress made in deepening their historically close and special partnership, which has greatly benefited the peoples of both nations, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs.
