New Delhi, 3 August 2022 (TDI): Maldivian President, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, is on an official visit to India, and on Tuesday, the President held official talks with the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.
The talks were held at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, in the presence of senior delegates from both Maldives as well as India.
President Solih holds official talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi https://t.co/wxu9TgIbzI
— The President’s Office (@presidencymv) August 2, 2022
During the discussions, both the leaders shed light on the bilateral relationship between the two countries, which dates back several generations.
The progress of the past and present cooperation, and ways to strengthen existing ties in a variety of sectors were reviewed by both leaders.
Maldivian President Solih thanked the Indian government for the socioeconomic and infrastructural assistance in the Maldives.
He noted that several projects were underway in the Maldives with Indian assistance like the Greater Male Connectivity Project, Laamu Atoll, and the development of 4000 housing units in Hulhumale.
Maldivian President also indicated that through tourism cooperation both countries can greatly benefit. He further reaffirmed Maldive’s commitment to work with India to address the threat of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
The President also welcomed India’s pledge to achieve net zero-carbon emission by 2070. President Solih stated that he looks forward to working closely with India to further strengthen and diversify trade relations.
Indian Prime Minister’s Stance
In response, Prime Minister Modi of India praised the Maldivian government for effectively controlling the Covid-19 pandemic. He also mentioned India’s Neighborhood-First Policy, and that Maldives has a special place in Neighborhood-First Policy.
Prime Minister Modi iterated that India has always supported various development projects in the Maldives and assured that this will continue. He also referred to President Solih’s last visit to India which helped boost tourism.
While referring to the Maldives hosting several regional and international sports events, the Indian Prime Minister said that India will continue to support youth and sports development.
While concluding their talks, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the fraternal bonds of friendship between the two countries. Before these official talks, both leaders also held a one-on-one meeting followed by restricted talks.
