Maldives extends ‘firm support’ to India in fight against terrorism

Maldives Foreign Minister expresses firm support for India after Pahalgam terror attack, strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation.

The Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Khaleel expressed “firm support” to India in the backdrop of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 dead and dozens injured. The discussion in this regard was part of the High Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting that took place here on Monday (May 26, 2025).

“Foreign Minister Dr. Khaleel strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025. He expressed Maldives’ solidarity with the people and Government of India and its firm support to India in the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” said the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement after the meeting.

Mr. Khaleel conveyed appreciation from Maldives for the recent grant of emergency financial assistance by India. He held a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. “Welcome Maldives’ support and solidarity in combating terrorism. India remains committed to Maldives’ progress and development,” said Mr Jaishankar after the meeting.

“We reviewed our ongoing political and development cooperation and explored ways for early implementation of the Vision Document set forth by the two leaders of Maldives and India for strengthening Maldives-India relations,” said Mr. Khaleel after the meeting. The Vision Document was launched October 7, 2024, during the India visit by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu.

The HLCG is a mechanism at the level of the Joint Secretaries. But for a change, Mr. Khaleel led the Maldivian delegation at the talks. The Indian delegation was headed by Puneet Agrawal, Additional Secretary, Indian Ocean Region Division.