“India-Maldives Ties Rooted in Centuries of Friendship”: PM Modi Highlights Shared Legacy on State Visit
Male:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the deep-rooted ties between India and the Maldives during an official banquet hosted in his honour by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Male.
Speaking on the strength of bilateral ties, PM Modi said, “India-Maldives relations date back centuries. We are not just neighbours, but partners and friends who stand by each other in times of need. The Maldives occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This is more than diplomacy – it’s a bond of genuine friendship.”
Highlighting recent high-level engagements, Modi recalled, “Last year, President Muizzu visited India on a State Visit. Today, I have the honour of being the first State Guest of his presidency.”
PM Modi noted the symbolic timing of his visit. “It’s a matter of great honour to be the Guest of Honour on the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations – a happy coincidence that makes this occasion even more meaningful.”
He emphasized the civilisational ties between the two nations, stating, “Our connection is as ancient as the monsoon winds and as sweet as Addu Bondi. The similarities in our languages and food reflect our shared heritage.”
He also lauded the growing people-to-people links. “The deep-rooted friendship between our citizens continues to thrive. In fact, the 10 lakhth tourist visiting the Maldives this year was an Indian.”
President Muizzu praised PM Modi’s leadership, congratulating him for becoming the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India, with 4,078 consecutive days in office—surpassing Indira Gandhi’s tenure.
“This milestone reflects your steadfast commitment to public service and your role in India’s progress,” said Muizzu.
PM Modi is the first non-Congress leader to achieve this feat and the first Prime Minister born after India’s independence. He assumed office on May 26, 2014, and has since served 11 years and 60 days continuously. Only Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first PM, has served longer in consecutive terms.
During his two-day visit, Modi and Muizzu held bilateral talks and signed several agreements to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, agriculture, healthcare, and social development, supporting the Maldives in its continued growth.
News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
