Mumbai: In a recent development, Union Cabinet has shown a green signal for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Maldives for the establishment of passenger and cargo services by sea.
An official statement reads, “With a view to harnessing the potential opportunity that lies in passenger and cargo transportation by sea between the two countries, this MoU with the Maldives has been signed.”
“The proposed ferry service would contribute in a big way to promote people to people contact and to boost bilateral trade,” it added.
India is a major development partner of Maldives and it has established several leading institutions in the island nation.
“India has provided the $ 100 million stand-by-credit facilities (SCF) to the Maldives, including long-term debt and revolving credit for business,” the statement said.
It further mentioned that in Kulhudhuffushi, the third most populated city in the Maldives, “there are good prospects for tourists from Kochi as well as the introduction of ferry services for cargoes.”
“Kuldhfushi and the surrounding islands are a major population center in the northern part of the Maldives and there are a large number of resorts which can be a potential tourist destination for Indians,” it said.
The Cabinet on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding for developing, promoting and strengthening mutual cooperation between judges of both the countries between India and Morocco.
“Approval will promote cooperation between India and Morocco in judicial and other legal areas and will enable knowledge exchange in infrastructure and information technology,” the statement said.
Notably, Large number of Maldivians also travel to Kerala and other South Indian cities for educational purposes.
The Cabinet, in a statement, said that the MoU was signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Male’ on June 8.
Among other forms of connectivity between India and Maldives, flight services for resorts and seaplane in resorts, which are an expensive option.
“On the other hand, contact with Kochi through sea can promote inbound tourism, especially health and welfare tourism for India,” the statement said.
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