Maldives president to travel to India to attend IPL match
20 އެޕްރީލު 2019 | ހޮނިހިރު 12:53The current administration has been working to develop the sport in Maldives, and has sought India's help in the construction of a cricket stadium
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih with Indian cricket star, Yuvraj Singh
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is to travel to India on an unofficial visit on Sunday, to attend a cricket match.
President’s Office spokesperson, Ibrahim Hood told RaajjeMV that the president is to attend Sunday’s match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings, in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The match will commence at 8pm India time.
Back in February, a friendly match was held between Maldives and India, with President Solih and other government officials on the Maldivian team and well-known Indian cricket stars in ‘Air India’ team.
In addition, as part of the government’s plans to enhance the sport, it is seeking India’s assistance in the construction of a cricket stadium.
In addition to attending the IPL match, Hood said that President Solih will be meeting with Maldivians living in India during the trip. However, he noted that there are no official meetings scheduled for the two-day trip; the president is to return on Monday.
President Solih will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.
While bilateral relations between Maldives and India had soured during former President Abdulla Yameen's five-year tenure, things have vastly improved since the new administration took over in November 2018.
While incumbent President Solih’s first state visit since assuming office was to India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended his swearing in ceremony.
