Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has on Saturday called on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih upon his inauguration on Saturday evening.
The President’s Office released a statement following the meeting between President Solih and PM Modi, revealing discussions held between the two.
While this is the Indian PM’s first visit to the Maldives since assuming office, President Solih had welcomed him and thanked PM Modi for visiting and participating in the Presidential inauguration ceremony to which PM Modi responded by expressing his gratitude for extending the invitation.
The President’s Office in its statement revealed that PM Modi had conveyed greetings from the people of India to the Maldivian people on consolidation of democracy which he described to be essential for peace, prosperity and stability.
Highlighting the resilient relations between both countries, the two leaders expressed confidence in the renewal of the close bonds of cooperation and friendship following Solih’s inauguration. Both leaders had agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean and being mindful to each other’s concerns as well as aspirations.
Both leaders had also discussed unwavering commitment and support for cooperation in battling worldwide terrorism.
Noting that President Solih briefed PM Modi on the dire economic situation the country is currently in, the President’s Office detailed discussion held about ways in which the neighboring country can continue to development partnership with the Maldives particularly to help Solih’s government to fulfill its pledges to the citizens, with President Solih having highlighted the pressing need for an increase of housing and infrastructure development, more over for the establishment of water and sewerage systems in outlying atolls.
The President’s Office went on to reveal that PM Modi assured President Solih of India’s firm commitment to assist Maldives achieve sustainable social and economic development, having conveyed India’s willingness to extend help in all possible ways.
PM Modi further suggested that both sides should meet at the earliest to work out details as per the requirements of Maldives. Moreover, Modi welcomed the expanding opportunities for Indian companies to invest in the country in different sectors for the mutual benefit of both countries.
Acknowledging the extensive trips back and forth by its nationals, the leaders agreed on the need to facilitate easier visa procedures.
While PM Modi had extended an invitation to President Solih to make a state visit to India at his earliest convenience, President Solih had accepted the invitation and invited Modi to make an official visit to the Maldives in the near future, which the PM gratefully accepted.
RaajjeMV also understands that the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the new administration will be making an official visit to India on the 26th of November to hold further discussions and to prepare for President Solih’s visit to India.
