Mon May 19 07:06:21 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:

**Summary:**

India and the Maldives have signed 13 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) under the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Phase III, funded by an Indian grant of MVR 100 million. These projects aim to enhance ferry services, expand maritime connectivity, and improve community livelihoods in the Maldives. The signing ceremony was attended by key officials from both countries, with the Maldivian Foreign Minister highlighting the enduring bond between the two nations and the significant impact of Indian assistance on local communities. The Transport Minister noted the progress in establishing a nationwide high-speed ferry network and expressed gratitude for India’s support. The HICDP Phase III was announced during President Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024 and is now expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

**News Article:**

**India, Maldives Deepen Ties with Infrastructure and Connectivity Boost**

**Male, Maldives – May 19, 2025** – India and the Maldives further solidified their partnership on Sunday with the signing of 13 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) focused on enhancing ferry services, maritime connectivity, and community development across the island nation. The agreements fall under the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Phase III, backed by a substantial Indian grant of MVR 100 million (approximately ₹55.28 crore).

The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Male, was attended by Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel and Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, G. Balasubramanian. Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen, also signed on behalf of the implementing agency.

“These projects are more than just infrastructure; they are lifelines designed to address local needs and bring lasting socio-economic benefits to our communities,” stated Minister Khaleel, emphasizing the enduring bond between the Maldives and India and the purposeful nature of India’s assistance.

The projects will focus on expanding the existing nationwide high-speed ferry network, which currently connects 81 islands across 9 atolls, significantly improving connectivity and accessibility for residents. Transport Minister Ameen noted the rapid progress of the ferry network and expressed optimism that these new MoUs will further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations. He also announced the expedited completion of the project by the end of 2025, ahead of its initial 2027 timeline.

High Commissioner Balasubramanian reaffirmed India’s commitment to partnering with the Maldives in enhancing maritime connectivity, which he described as a “lifeline for the people of the Maldives.”

The announcement of HICDP Phase III followed President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to India in October 2024. The initiative is seen as a key step towards realizing President Muizzu’s vision of a strengthened national transport network by the end of the year. This collaboration underscores the continued commitment of both nations to fostering mutual growth and development through impactful community-focused projects.

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