Shidhatha: India – one of the closest allies in social development

India is one of Maldives’ most important bilateral partners in social development, says Minister of Fender, Family and Social Services, Shidhatha Shareef.

Shidhatha made the statement during round table discussions by the think-tank, Vivekananda International Foundation in India last Tuesday, which focused on the regional situation and Maldives-India relations.

Speaking during the discussions, Shidhatha said Maldives and India shared age-old ties, formed and developed over time due to similar culture and lifestyles.

She said the bilateral ties were beneficial to Maldives in a vast range of areas. And expressed appreciation for India’s contribution in social development and women empowerment.

Shidhatha, during her current visit to India, has shed light on the issues faced by women and children in Maldives and shared information on measures being put in place to address the issues.

She has also shared information on the Maldivian government’s policies to empower women and promote gender equality.