For the first time, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih made his maiden three-day foreign visit to India on Sunday, to advance the bilateral ties. The newly elected President of Maldives was received by Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Solih is now staying at Rashtrapati Bhavan as a guest of the Indian government.
At a public event here, Solih described India as Maldives closest friend, since India being Maldives noteworthy trade comrade. The main intention of Solih’s visit is to make an agreement with India to facilitate smooth attainment of visas for the citizens of both countries. Solih said that he was taking on the presidency at a time when the country is in an intricate financial situation.
Strengthening close ties of conformity and friendship which happened after PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives, tweeted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. Solih, being elected in 2018 by a vast majority of 58.4%, defeating former President Abulla Yameen have made a discussion with Modi today after a ceremonial reception. It is foredestined to meet President Ram Nath Kovind accompanied by Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu and foreign minister Sushma Swaraj.
Prime Minister Modi assured President Solih of India’s firm commitment to assist the Maldives to achieve sustainable social and economic development. He also conveyed India’s readiness to extend help in every possible way and suggested that both sides should meet at the earliest to work out details as per requirements of the Maldives. Prime Minister Modi and President Solih discussed ways in which India can continue development partnership, particularly to help the new government in meeting its pledges to the people of the Maldives.
Prime Minister Modi also confirmed the expanding opportunities for Indian companies to invest in the Maldives in different sectors for the mutual assets of both countries. Modi, being the highest-ranking foreign leader at the swearing-in ceremony, said he had “productive discussions” with President Solih.
The proud product of an emperor’s love wrought in living stones, the ever mesmerizing Taj Mahal is expected to be visited by 54-year-old Maldivian Democratic Party leader Solih this Tuesday.
