India monitors Maldives-Pakistan ties as Muizzu signs 20 MoUs

Oct 24, 2026, 12:04 PM
Muizzu and Shehbaz Sharif -- Photo: President's Office

Muizzu and Shehbaz Sharif -- Photo: President's Office

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has revealed that it is closely monitoring the outcomes of President Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to Pakistan this week and will take any necessary measures in response.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that India is keeping a close watch on the strengthening ties between the Maldives and Pakistan.

"It has been reported that agreements were signed between the two countries. We are monitoring these developments very closely and will take any necessary steps if required," Jaiswal said, speaking in Hindi.

Muizzu conducted a state visit to Pakistan from October 20 to 23. During the visit, the Maldives signed 20 MoUs with Pakistan. Additionally, Pakistan briefed Muizzu on its official stance regarding the Kashmir issue.

During his stay in Pakistan, Muizzu met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He also held talks with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir.

Since Muizzu assumed office, India has provided the Maldives with $1.5 billion in loans and credit facilities. Furthermore, India facilitated the payment of $42.8 million in interest on $200 million worth of Treasury bills issued by the Maldives.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

"Muizzu is not an Islamic leader; his administration is secular"

Former Chief Justice Dr. Ahmed Abdulla Didi labeled President Mohamed Muizzu a secular leader, claiming his lifestyle and governance ignore Islamic principles. Didi criticized the President’s focus on luxury and optics over the public's hardships, while also condemning government attempts to silence journalists and dissent.

Suspects, including actors, released after drug bust probe

Four individuals, including three actors, were released from custody following a drug bust in Vilimale'. Although all suspects tested positive for methamphetamine and other synthetic drugs, police released them after concluding the investigation. One suspect, Shahil Mohamed, was already on conditional release for a separate major drug case.

Supreme Court asked to review rejection of Rasmale' case

Former MP Ali Hussain has asked the Supreme Court bench to review a registrar's rejection of his lawsuit against the Rasmale' land deal. The legal challenge seeks to nullify the 99-year agreement with a UAE firm, alleging it violates constitutional provisions regarding land leases and property rights.

Maldives and Pakistan pledge deeper military ties

President Mohamed Muizzu and General Asim Munir met to strengthen military ties between the Maldives and Pakistan. The leaders focused on enhancing defense cooperation, military training, and regional stability. This historic visit marks the first by a Maldivian president in a decade and included the signing of 20 bilateral agreements.

Man arrested for inciting arson and looting

Ali Juman was arrested for using social media to incite arson and looting in the Maldives. His posts targeted buildings and shops in protest of a government land deal. This follows the recent arrest of former Deputy Minister Hassan Zihan for similar threats against state institutions.

Indirect warning to MDP MPs who speak against Eagle Hills

MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed indirectly warned party MPs against criticizing the Eagle Hills project, citing the past expulsion of a member for defying party policy. The warning follows parliamentary debates where MDP members linked the project's chairman to Zionist interests, sparking internal backlash over the party's official stance.

Police investigate sexual assault against woman and minors

Police are investigating the sexual assault of a 22-year-old woman and several minors in the Upper South Police Division. One suspect has been taken into custody as authorities look into further allegations of child exploitation. To protect the victims' identities, officials have not disclosed the specific island where the crimes occurred.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox