Maldives and India discuss implementation of FTA and deepening economic ties

The Maldivian Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, has held high-level discussions with the Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, regarding the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and strengthening economic relations between the two nations.

During his official visit to India, undertaken at the invitation of Minister Goyal, Minister Saeed engaged in extensive bilateral talks focused on enhancing economic cooperation, trade, and investment.Reflecting on the meeting, Minister Saeed described the discussions as "productive and constructive."

He highlighted three key areas of focus: the ongoing negotiations regarding the Maldives-India Free Trade Agreement, the finalization of a Bilateral Investment Treaty, and several new initiatives aimed at boosting trade and economic collaboration.

Minister Saeed further noted that these efforts are aligned with the shared vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen the partnership between the Maldives and India through mutually beneficial economic growth.

He expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Indian government and reiterated his commitment to transforming these discussions into tangible outcomes for the benefit of the people of both countries.

The implementation of the FTA is expected to enhance market access, reduce trade barriers, and create significant new opportunities for businesses and investors in both the Maldives and India.

Minister Saeed was accompanied at the meeting by the High Commissioner of Maldives to India, Aishath Azeema, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and the Maldives High Commission in India.