Mohamed Muizzu calls India-backed bridge symbol of Maldives-India ties

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has described an India-backed infrastructure project as a symbol of the “close, enduring relationship” between the Maldives and India, marking a significant shift from his earlier India Out campaign and pro-China foreign policy.

Muizzu made the remarks while inspecting the under-construction Thilamale Bridge, a key component of the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP).

Speaking during a media briefing on National Engineer’s Day, he praised the “special priority” given to the project by the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Muizzu also thanked Modi, the Indian government and Indian High Commissioner G Balasubramanian, saying progress on the bridge had been made possible through the efforts of technical teams from both countries.

The 6.7-kilometre GMCP will connect Male with Vilimale, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi through a network of roads, bridges and causeways. Once completed, it is expected to provide a highway connection linking the capital, the airport and key industrial and port areas.

India is financing the project through a $400-million line of credit from the Export-Import Bank of India and a separate $100-million grant. Construction was awarded to Indian infrastructure company Afcons Infrastructure Ltd.

Muizzu came to power in 2023 on an 'India Out' platform that called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and a reduction in the Maldives’ dependence on New Delhi. His first foreign visit as president was to China, where he described Beijing as a close ally and developmental partner. The two countries also elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

However, China’s financial support was slow to materialise, with the Maldives’ debt burden limiting its ability to secure new loans. India subsequently provided crucial assistance during the Maldives’ economic crisis in 2024.

During a state visit to India that year, Muizzu said the Maldives would remain a “true friend” of India and thanked New Delhi for helping avert a debt crisis.