President Solih, PM Modi discuss cooperation, regional peace

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have discussed cooperation to maintain peace and security in the Indian Ocean.

The meeting between the two leaders took place at the President’s Office this Saturday evening.

Modi arrived in Maldives this Saturday to attend Solih’s inauguration.

The meeting with Modi was Solih’s act of office after his inauguration.

During the meeting, Modi congratulated Solih and the people of Maldives. And the two leaders discussed strengthening the strong ties between the two countries.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and Ministry of External Affairs of India has issued a joint press statement to disclose details of the meeting.

It says the two leaders discussed the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean and being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region and commitment and support for increased cooperation in combating terrorism, both within the South East Asian region and across the world.

The two leaders also discussed ways the India can assist Maldives, particularly in housing and infrastructure development and establishment of water and sanitation services in Maldivian islands.

Modi assured Solih of India’s firm commitment in assisting the Maldives in every possible way and suggested that both sides should meet at the earliest to work out details as per requirements of the Maldives.

He also welcomed the expanding opportunities for Indian companies to invest in the Maldives in different sectors for the mutual benefit of both countries. And agreed on the need for facilitating easier visa procedures.

During the meeting Modi extended an invitation to Solih to make a State visit to India at his earliest convenience. The invitation has been accepted by Solih.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid is scheduled to make an official visit to India on November 26 to hold further discussions and to prepare for Solih’s forthcoming State visit.

Solih has also invited Modi make an official visit to the Maldives in the near future – an invitation accepted by Modi.