Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the Maldives’ pivotal role in India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision during a meeting with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on October 7. The two leaders discussed deepening bilateral ties after a period of strained relations between the nations.
“India and Maldives relations are centuries old. India is Maldives’ nearest neighbour and close friend,” Modi said.
“Maldives holds an important position in our neighbourhood policy and SAGAR vision. India has always played the role of first responder for Maldives,” he said.
Muizzu, who arrived in New Delhi on October 6, is on his first state visit to India since assuming office last November. His visit comes amid efforts to mend relations after he won the presidency on an ‘India Out’ campaign and called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island nation.
