PM Modi Arrives In Maldives For Historic 2-Day Visit: What's On Agenda?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Maldives on Friday. He was welcomed at the airport by President Muizzu, Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister and Minister of Homeland Security.

Modi has reached Maldives after concluding the India UK free trade agreement, that this will boost India's ties with the two countries.

Modi has travelled to the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu in what is being seen as a breakthrough in the ties between the two countries following a spell of frostiness under Muizzu.

Modi will join the celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the independence of the Maldives.

"This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. I look forward to my meetings with President Muizzu and other political leadership, to advance our joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, and to strengthen our cooperation for peace, prosperity and stability in the Indian Ocean Region," he said.

The prime minister expressed confidence that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting people and advancing India's neighbourhood first policy.