President Dr Mohamed Muizzu arrived in New Delhi yesterday for a state visit to India, following an official invitation from the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. This visit, his first to India as President, aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the Maldives and India.
Accompanied by First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed and a high-level delegation, President Muizzu is expected to hold several key meetings with Indian officials during his stay. His itinerary includes discussions with President Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on enhancing relations between the two nations. The President is also scheduled to travel to Mumbai and Bangalore later this week.
In a courtesy meeting with the Minister of External Affairs of India, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, both leaders expressed mutual satisfaction over the warm ties between the Maldives and India. Dr Jaishankar welcomed President Muizzu and his delegation, while the President extended his gratitude for the hospitality received upon their arrival.
Discussions between the two sides centred on several key areas, including affordable housing, healthcare services, and the promotion of tourism, which remain priorities in the Maldives’ development agenda. The expansion of fisheries and agriculture sectors was also highlighted, given their importance to the Maldivian economy and the welfare of its people. Both leaders reviewed the progress of ongoing initiatives supported by the Indian government and explored further areas of cooperation that would be mutually beneficial.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepening the existing relationship between the two nations, reflecting the importance of maintaining close ties between the governments and peoples of the Maldives and India.
As President Dr Muizzu’s visit continues, further discussions are expected to focus on economic collaboration and development projects that benefit both countries.