What Happened When PM Modi Met Maldivian Vice President Hussain Latheef in Male?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit to the Maldives marks crucial diplomatic engagement.
- 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic relations celebrated.
- Multiple MoUs signed to strengthen bilateral ties.
- Joint release of commemorative stamps symbolizes cooperation.
- Future cooperation is anticipated between the two nations.
Male, July 26 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with Maldives Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and Speaker of the Maldivian Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Saturday during his important state visit to the island nation.
Initiated by an invitation from Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, this visit signifies PM Modi's inaugural official trip to the Maldives following his third consecutive term in office.
The Prime Minister is set to address the Indian diaspora later today.
In a notable move to strengthen bilateral ties, India and the Maldives formalized multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) across various sectors on Friday. As highlighted by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), these agreements reinforce the strong and multifaceted partnership between both nations.
On the social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi remarked, "This exemplifies the strength, depth, and broad scope of the India-Maldives friendship."
One of the highlights of the visit was the joint unveiling of commemorative stamps by PM Modi and President Muizzu in celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal underscored the symbolic significance of this occasion, marking decades of collaboration and goodwill.
During an official state banquet in honor of PM Modi, President Muizzu reflected on the rich historical and cultural connections between the two countries. “This year symbolizes 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India, a milestone that encapsulates not just our shared history but also the strength and resilience of our partnership. The bond between our peoples predates diplomatic formalities, as the Indian Ocean has long witnessed our intertwined paths,” Muizzu noted.
He also congratulated Prime Minister Modi for becoming the second-longest consecutively serving Prime Minister in India’s history, commending his leadership and regional diplomacy.
This visit marks a rejuvenated chapter in India-Maldives relations, with both leaders expressing hope for enhanced cooperation in the future.