The Maldives and India have resumed discussions on establishing an Indian consulate in southernmost Addu City.
Discussions on establishing an Indian consulate in Addu City first began in May 2021 during the last MDP government. However, the discussions were halted after political pressure from the then-opposing Peoples’ National Congress (PNC) and Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).
The subject was brought back to the table in official discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s ongoing state visit to India. Following the talks, Modi informed the media that the talks included discussions on opening of an Indian consulate in Addu City. However, it is to be noted that the specific detail was not mentioned in President Dr. Muizzu’s official statement following the talks.
The Indian government has always been keen on opening an Indian consulate in Addu City. The proposal has been positively received by the Addu City Council.
Currently, the Indian High Commission in the Maldives is located in Hulhumale’, while the Maldivian High Commission in India is located in New Delhi. The Maldives has an additional consulate in Trivandrum and is in talks with the Indian government to open a second consulate in Bangalore. Trivandrum and Bangalore are the most popular destinations for Maldivians traveling to India.
