First Couple wraps up maiden bilateral visit to India
He also headed to Bangalore and Mumbai to engage in business-related events and discussions
The first couple toured Kempegowda International Airport on the way back
The first couple has wrapped up their inaugural bilateral visit to India.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed began their maiden bilateral visit to the neighboring country on October 6.
The visit came upon the official invitation from the neighboring country’s president, Droupadi Murmu.
The first couple’s five-day trip concluded on October 10.
This was the president’s first bilateral visit to India since assuming office as the eighth president of Maldives in November 2023.
As part of his visit, Muizzu sat down for talks with the neighboring’s country’s president Murmu as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi to engage in discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Muizzu’s visit paved the path to further boost cooperation, and the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.
He also headed to Bangalore and Mumbai to engage in business-related events and discussions.
On Sunday night, the first couple met the Maldivian community in New Delhi and Bangalore, where they inquired the Maldivian citizens about their well-being and lives in India.
As part of the trip, discussions were also held regarding efforts to strengthen the relationship between India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Maldives’ ruling People’s National Congress (PNC).
After meeting with Muizzu in New Delhi on Monday, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an increase in aid to the Maldives.
As part of the trip, agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between the governments of India and Maldives, including a USD 400 million currency swap agreement, on Monday.
“A vision for comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership" was adopted during this ceremony.
Further, the servicing of the Huravee Coast Guard ship by Indian assistance on gratis basis was also announced.
Further, the ceremony also saw the launching of the Rupay Card via a video presentation, the inauguration of the new runway at Hanimaadhoo International Airport, and the handover of 700 completed social housing units built under the Buyers Credit facility of EXIM Bank of India.
Delivering a joint press statement after official talks with PM Modi, President Muizzu said that India is a key partner in the socioeconomic and infrastructural development of Maldives.
According to a statement released after the meeting between the two leaders, it was revealed that the government of India would assist the Maldives by providing "defense platforms and assets" or military vessels to enhance the capabilities of MNDF for maritime safety and security needs, in line with national priorities.
Speaking at the India-Maldives Business Forum held in Bangalore, Muizzu stated that it is crucial for the Maldives and India to work together in finding sustainable and digital solutions needed for the future of the Maldives.
The official talks between the two countries saw Muizzu and Modi discussing ongoing initiatives and exploring new avenues for cooperation including in areas like social housing, infrastructure development, agriculture and fisheries, trade and investment, human resource development, healthcare, women's empowerment, renewable energy, and maritime and security cooperation.
Muizzu also visited Agra and Mumbai where several meetings took place and he participated in multiple events.
In his remarks at the business forums, Muizzu shed light on the significant potential Maldives has for tourism ventures and outlined opportunities for future collaboration.
He outlined his vision for economic diversification and sustainable growth, adding that there are key investment prospects such as special economic zones, luxury private islands, eco-friendly resorts, and integrated tourism projects.
Maldives and India will celebrate 60 years since formal diplomatic ties were established between both countries in 2025.
Muizzu has invited PM Modi and the President of India to conduct state visits to the Maldives.
According to the President’s Office, the state visit concluded positively, with both countries reiterating mutual commitment to enhance long-standing ties and work towards mutual growth and prosperity.
