Government informs India of problems with agreement with GMR

The government of Maldives has brought to the attention of Indian government, the problems associated with its agreement with GMR for the management of Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA).

Discussions took place during the visit to India by Maldives’ Transport Minister Dr Ahmed Shamheed and Trade Minister Ahmed Mohamed, during their meeting with India’s Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh and Shipping Minister.

Transport Minister Ahmed Shamheed told Sun Online upon his return to Maldives, that he informed the Indian government that the does not facilitate the development of the airport according to the government’s plans. Specific issues discussed include the fact that the agreement does not mention the construction of a new runway, and the problem of Airport Development Charge (ADC).

“The Civil Aviation Minister talked about this issue in detail, while we were on the subject of foreign investments. Until now, the Indian government had been aware only that the Maldivian government has an agreement with GMR. So we took the opportunity to explain the problems associated with this agreement. It was a good chance to inform them of this,” he said.

Shamheed said that he assured the Indian government that the Maldives will not treat foreign investors unjustly.

The two Ministers visited India to seek a solution to the problems faced by Maldivian vessels entering Indian harbours, due to recent changes made to Indian regulations. Discussions also took place on the commencement of Maldivian’s flights to India.