India’s regional engagement and neighbourhood relations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the Maldives, marking his third visit to the island nation and his first under the administration of President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit comes during a period of evolving bilateral relations. During the trip, India is expected to announce a new line of credit for development projects, inaugurate infrastructure initiatives, and explore cooperation in areas such as climate resilience, public health, and maritime security.

A key element of India-Maldives relations is the $500 million Greater Malé Connectivity Project, which will physically link the capital to nearby islands, spurring economic activity and improving lives. India has also supported community-level water and sanitation projects in dozens of islands, directly benefitting over 28,000 Maldivians.

India provided Covid-19 vaccines, food aid, and emergency assistance to the Maldives during the pandemic. Similarly, India has extended financial support to other South Asian countries. In Sri Lanka, India provided over $3.8 billion in assistance, including credit lines for essential goods such as fuel and medicine.

In Bangladesh, India has offered nearly $8 billion in concessional credit, supporting infrastructure development, transport links, energy projects, and cross-border trade. Joint efforts such as power transmission and pipeline connections have enhanced bilateral cooperation.

India has also maintained development assistance in Nepal and Bhutan, focusing on transport and energy infrastructure, along with educational and healthcare support. These initiatives are often accompanied by regular high-level diplomatic engagements.

In Afghanistan, India has delivered humanitarian aid and rebuilt key institutions, like the Salma Dam and the Afghan Parliament, alongside ongoing humanitarian aid. In Myanmar, India has participated in projects related to transport connectivity and disaster relief.

India’s engagement with neighboring countries is often described by Indian officials as prioritizing regional cooperation. Areas of focus include emergency evacuation, cross-border infrastructure, cultural preservation, and capacity-building through scholarships and training programs.

Modi’s upcoming visit to the Maldives reflects continued efforts to engage with countries in the region. Indian officials present this approach as one that emphasizes stable, long-term partnerships that recognize the sovereignty and development paths of neighboring countries.