India offers Financial Aid to Maldives


Question: Which of the following country is offered financial aid worth $1.4 billion from India?
(a) Tanzania
(b) Estonia
(c) Maldives
(d) Nepal
Answer: (c)
Related facts:

  • During the State Visit of President of the Republic of Maldives Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to India (16-18 December 2018), in a formal announcement India notified to give financial aid worth $1.4 billion to Maldives.
  • Acting on Neighbourhood First policy, India will provide all kinds of support and help to the neighbouring country. This comes in the wake of loans from China equating to 70% of total Maldives national debt which is estimated to be between $1.5 to 3 billion.
  • Maldives is a small island nation located in Indian Ocean south to India.It has been a close ally to India which suffered turmoil when ex-President Yameen turned hostile to India increasing its relation to China. The present government led by Solih worked to restart its close relations with India.
  • Both the nations signed four agreements and promised to maintain security and peace in Indian Ocean. Maldivian President also announced its support for permanent membership of India in United Nations.

Links:
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-offers-1-4-billion-aid-to-maldives-5498261/
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-extends-usd-14-billion-assistance-to-maldives/article25762835.ece