President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has officially welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state official visit to the Maldives.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in the Maldives on Friday morning at the invitation of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, and was received by the President along with Cabinet members.
The official welcoming ceremony took place at the Republic Square area in Male’ City on Friday afternoon. On arrival at the Izzuddin Jetty, the Prime Minister was greeted by President Muizzu, where they observed a cultural item by Maldivian School students. President Muizzu then accompanied the visiting prime minister to the saluting dais, and a 21-Gun Salute was offered; followed by which the national anthems of Maldives and India were played. Prime Minister Modi then proceeded to inspect a Guard of Honour by Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The presentation of host and visiting dignitaries followed.
During Modi’s two-day visit to the Maldives, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold official talks with President Dr Muizzu, with a focus on strengthening bilateral ties between the two neighbourly nations. The two leaders will also exchange a number of Memoranda of Understanding and agreements, and deliver joint press statements outlining the outcomes of their discussions.
This historic visit is Prime Minister Modi’s first trip to the Maldives since assuming his third term in office. It also coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India.
Prime Minister Modi is accompanied by a high-level delegation.