Indian President hails Maldives in 'Neighbourhood First' policy

Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed for a banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, and said that Male holds a special place in New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and SAGAR Vision.

During the gala, President Murmu said that Maldives is a close friend as well as a key partner for India in the Indian Ocean Region.

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.

Both leaders agreed on the advancement of the bilateral partnership that would benefit the people of both nations.

Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with EAM S Jaishankar and other leaders and diplomats from both nations, also attended the event.

The Maldives President arrived in India on Sunday on a five-day visit, was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today.

President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi received the Maldivian President and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed as they arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Muizzu and Maldives First Lady paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. After paying tribute at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial, Muizzu also signed the visitors' book at Rajghat.

(ANI)