Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Accepts Invitation to Visit Maldives
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted an invitation from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to make an official visit to the Maldives.
Muizzu, who is currently on an official visit to India, extended the invitation during a meeting with Modi in New Delhi. Vikram Misry, the Foreign Secretary of the Indian External Affairs Ministry, confirmed Modi’s acceptance during a press conference detailing Muizzu’s state visit. However, Misry did not disclose the date for the Prime Minister’s trip.
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Next year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India. Muizzu’s invitation aims to commemorate this significant occasion.
During their discussions, Muizzu expressed a desire for his administration to work closely with India to enhance cooperation. He underscored India’s crucial role as a partner in the Maldives’ social and economic development and affirmed that the Maldives will continue to be a steadfast ally of India.
Maldives and India Initiate Talks for Free Trade Agreement
The Maldives and India have announced the commencement of discussions to establish a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made this announcement during a joint statement with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who is currently on an official visit to India.
During their meeting, Modi highlighted that the two leaders engaged in extensive discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation across various sectors. He stated that the decision to initiate FTA talks is intended to strengthen economic ties between the Maldives and India.
The discussions regarding the FTA come at a time when the Maldives is set to implement an FTA signed with China in 2014, beginning next year. Additionally, the Maldives has expressed its intention to advance a Preferential Trade Agreement with Türkiye.
As part of the bilateral discussions, India has approved a facility allowing the Maldives to swap USD 400 million and Rs 30 billion in multiple withdrawals.
During President Muizzu’s visit, he and First Lady Sajidha are scheduled to visit key cities including New Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, and Bangalore for official meetings aimed at bolstering bilateral trade relations.
