
PM Modi Maldives Visit LIVE: PM To Attend Independence Day Celebrations In Malé; MoUs & Key Deals On Agenda
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maldives Today Live Updates: It is PM Modi's first visit to the island nation ever since the India-Maldives ties soured.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day visit to the Maldives, concluding his visit to the United Kingdom. PM Modi's visit to the Maldives is significant, as it marks his first since bilateral ties were strained by the 'India Out' campaign led by some Maldivian leaders and President Muizzu's pro-China tilt.
Notably, President Muizzu invited PM Modi to attend he 60th National Day celebrations as a chief guest. He is also visiting on the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations.
'A landmark visit to the UK concludes, elevating the India-UK trade and economic ties to new heights. PM Narendra Modi emplanes for the second leg of his tour—Maldives,' the Ministry of External Affairs stated on X.
This visit is not only important to strengthen bilateral cooperation, but it also reaffirms India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy in the Indian Ocean region.
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Time of India
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