President Droupadi Murmu emphasised India’s close relationship with Maldives during her address at the banquet hosted to welcome President Mohamed Muizzu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday.
Speaking on occasion, President Murmu said, “It is an honour to welcome Mohamed Muizzu, President of Maldives, and First Lady Sajidha Mohammed at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. India and Maldives are not only interjoined by geography but also by our shared values of democracy. As close neighbours, we’ve celebrated each other’s successes and have stood by each other in times of need.”
She said that the vision document adopted during Muizzu’s visit would elevate the level of the relationship for both nations and would also provide a clear roadmap for achieving a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership.
President Murmu noted that India is one of the top trading partners of Maldives and highlighted that there is also potential for taking forward collaboration in the field of digital payments and other new technologies.
During the gala, President Muizzu reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting the centuries-old maritime connection between the two nations.
“Our friendship is built on centuries of maritime connection, trade, and cultural exchanges. India is a second home for many Maldivians for trade, healthcare, education, and tourism,” he stated.