New Delhi: In a significant diplomatic event, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, welcomed the President of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan on October 7, 2024. The visit underscored the deepening ties between the two nations, with President Murmu hosting a banquet in honor of President Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed.
Welcoming the Maldivian delegation, President Murmu highlighted the special relationship shared between India and the Maldives, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean Region. “The Maldives holds a unique place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) Vision,” the President remarked, reinforcing the Maldives’ role as a key partner for India in the region.
During the discussions, both leaders acknowledged the importance of the Vision document adopted during President Muizzu’s visit, which aims to elevate the bilateral relationship. The document sets a clear roadmap for advancing economic cooperation and strengthening maritime security ties.
President Murmu expressed satisfaction with the flourishing trade relations between the two countries, with India being one of the Maldives’ top trading partners. She also noted the potential for collaboration in emerging sectors such as digital payments and new technologies.