President of India Droupadi Murmu has highlighted the importance of the bilateral partnership between India and the Maldives, describing the Maldives as a key partner and friend of India. She made the remarks during a meeting held with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who paid a courtesy call on the Indian president as part of his ongoing official visit to India.
Speaking at the meeting, President Solih congratulated President Murmu on her inauguration to office. He expressed hope that bilateral relations between the Maldives and India would strengthen during her tenure. He also stressed the importance of collaborative efforts for the progress of the people of both countries.
During the meeting, President Murmu commended the ideals that guide President Solih's administration, such as decentralisation, inclusivity, and people-centred development. In turn, President Solih expressed gratitude for India's Neighbourhood First Policy, under which the Maldives receives significant socioeconomic benefits.
President Solih appreciated the efforts made to expedite important developmental projects that would benefit the Maldivian people, which are being carried out with the assistance of the Indian government. He expressed confidence that the six additional agreements that were signed on August 2 would elevate the Maldives-India partnership to even greater heights.
At the meeting, the Indian president stated that Maldives is a key partner and friend of India, highlighting the country’s close cultural, economic, and trade ties. She further stated that Maldives-India partnership serves as a model for the entire region. President Solih also expressed confidence that Maldives-India relations would enhance in the future.
This is the first meeting with foreign head of state since Indian President Murmu took office. She assumed office as the President of India on July 25, 2022.
President Solih is currently on a four-day official visit to India upon invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A high-level delegation consisting of government officials and Maldivian business leaders are accompanying the president on this trip.