Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid has expressed keenness to find new ways to broaden and strengthen the relationship between Maldives and India under the leadership of newly appointed Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

The statement was made in a congratulatory message FM Shahid extended to the newly appointed External Affairs Minister following his swearing-in on Thursday.

Extending his heartiest felicitations, FM Shahid shed light on the long-standing relationship built on mutual trust, respect and shared interests that both countries have shared over the years.

FM Shahid went on to express his confidence that work will move forward with renewed vigor and energy, with Minister Jaishankar’s experience and extensive knowledge on the relations between both countries.

He added that together, both countries are charting a new course on the bilateral cooperation shared and exploring new areas as well as strengthening the existing avenues between both governments.

Further, FM Shahid expressed his appreciation for the role Minister Jaishankar played to strengthen cooperation between Maldives and India during his term as Foreign Secretary.

“I am looking forward to meeting you once again and discussing ways in which we can continue working on revitalizing the traditionally friendly relations between our two countries. I wish you success in your new assignment" revealed a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Jaishankar, a former top diplomat and the former Foreign Secretary during Narendra Modi’s government’s first term in office, took oath of office on Thursday.