The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has given its approval on March 16, 2021 on the memorandum of understanding on cooperation in sports & youth affairs between India and Maldives.
Background
The MoU on cooperation in sports and youth affairs was signed in November 2020. It was signed between Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports of India and Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment of Maldives.
Significance of the MoU
The bilateral exchange programmes under the MoU between both the countries in the arena of sports and youth affairs will help to expand the expertise and knowledge with respect to sports science, sports medicines, coaching techniques and participation in youth festivals & camps. This in turn will result in improving the performances of sportspersons of India at the international tournaments. The MoU will also strengthen the bilateral relations between both the countries. The MoU will benefit all the sportspersons of India belonging to any of the region, caste, creed, gender, and religion equally.
India-Maldives Relation
India and Maldives established a diplomatic relation after Maldives got independence from British rule in the year 1966. India was the first country that recognised the independence of the island nation. Following that, both the countries have developed a close strategic, economic, military and cultural relations.
Maritime Treaty
The countries had signed the Maritime Boundary Treaty in December 1976 to agree on maritime boundaries. This treaty places “Minicoy Island” to the Indian side of boundary.
Comprehensive Trade Agreement
Both the countries signed a comprehensive trade agreement in 1981. The countries are founding members of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and South Asian Economic Union. They are also signatories to the South Asia Free Trade Agreement.