India which has consolidated its position as the "pharmacy of the world" amid covid crisis has sent the Maldives 2400 vials of BCG vaccine.

The dispatched supply of vaccines that have been gifted by India reaches the country today, just ahead of the dawn of the new year. New Delhi "urgently dispatched" the vaccine,&nbsp;administered to babies to prevent&nbsp;tuberculosis,&nbsp;to bridge a shortfall in the National Immunization Programme of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In picture: One of the boxes of the&nbsp;BCG vaccines gifted by India to Maldives

The vaccines were&nbsp;procured by India's&nbsp;Ministry of Health and Ministry of External Affairs and coordinated with Maldives High Commission in Delhi,&nbsp; Honorary Consul of the Maldives in Mumbai, and the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the entire process.&nbsp;

A statement by the Indian high commission in the Maldives said, "India’s Neighbourhood First foreign policy has demonstrated time and again, willingness and ability to assist Maldives with speed and scale, in times of need."

Adding, "Under the leadership of PM Modi and President Solih, the India-Maldives bilateral partnership based on mutual respect, trust and understanding has been infused with renewed vigour for the benefit of our peoples. "

Earlier this year in January, India sent&nbsp;30,000 doses of the measles-Rubella vaccine. In 2020, as the covid pandemic wreaked the world, India has reached out the Maldives by sending a medical team and gifting&nbsp;5.5 tonnes of essential medicines. Under the operation Sanjeevani, Indian Air force airlifted&nbsp;6.3 tonnes of essential medicines and consumables from various cities in India in April 2020.

That time, Indian High commissioner to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said the operation is a "growing example of India's neighbourhood first policy and reciprocation of Maldives' India first policy. Friendship in action!"

Another key focus has been capacity building with the training of&nbsp;Maldivian healthcare official. Additionally, under Mission Sagar one of the Indian Navy to reach out to countries with COVID aid, India sent food to 5 Indian ocean countries including the Maldives just before the onset of Ramzan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In fact, India sent 600 tonnes of food items to the Maldives via Indian Naval Ship Kesari. The package includes 200 tonnes of rice, 140 tonnes of wheat flour, 120 tonnes of yellow dal, 80 tonnes of sugar, 26 tonnes of onions and 14 tonnes of Potato.

India which has consolidated its position as the "pharmacy of the world" amid covid crisis has sent the Maldives 2400 vials of BCG vaccine. The dispatched supply of vaccines that have been gifted by India reaches the country today, just ahead of the dawn of the new year.

India which has consolidated its position as the "pharmacy of the world" amid covid crisis has sent the Maldives 2400 vials of BCG vaccine. The dispatched supply of vaccines that have been gifted by India reaches the country today, just ahead of the dawn of the new year. New Delhi "urgently dispatched" the vaccine, administered to babies to prevent tuberculosis, to bridge a shortfall in the National Immunization Programme of the country. In picture: One of the boxes of the BCG vaccines gifted by India to Maldives The vaccines were procured by India's Ministry of Health and Ministry of External Affairs and coordinated with Maldives High Commission in Delhi, Honorary Consul of the Maldives in Mumbai, and the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the entire process. A statement by the Indian high commission in the Maldives said, "India’s Neighbourhood First foreign policy has demonstrated time and again, willingness and ability to assist Maldives with speed and scale, in times of need." Adding, "Under the leadership of PM Modi and President Solih, the India-Maldives bilateral partnership based on mutual respect, trust and understanding has been infused with renewed vigour for the benefit of our peoples. " Earlier this year in January, India sent 30,000 doses of the measles-Rubella vaccine. In 2020, as the covid pandemic wreaked the world, India has reached out the Maldives by sending a medical team and gifting 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines. Under the operation Sanjeevani, Indian Air force airlifted 6.3 tonnes of essential medicines and consumables from various cities in India in April 2020. That time, Indian High commissioner to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said the operation is a "growing example of India's neighbourhood first policy and reciprocation of Maldives' India first policy. Friendship in action!" Another key focus has been capacity building with the training of Maldivian healthcare official. Additionally, under Mission Sagar one of the Indian Navy to reach out to countries with COVID aid, India sent food to 5 Indian ocean countries including the Maldives just before the onset of Ramzan. In fact, India sent 600 tonnes of food items to the Maldives via Indian Naval Ship Kesari. The package includes 200 tonnes of rice, 140 tonnes of wheat flour, 120 tonnes of yellow dal, 80 tonnes of sugar, 26 tonnes of onions and 14 tonnes of Potato.

New Year's gift! India sends BCG vaccines to Maldives

India, Maldives, Sri Lanka have agreed to expand intelligence sharing at the 4th National Security Adviser trilateral meet that happened in Colombo.

The three&nbsp;countries, will share intelligence on issues such as terrorism, radicalization, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, and effects of climate change on the maritime environment.

India was represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Maldives Defense minister Mariya Didi and Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd) Kamal Gunaratne. The first such trilateral happened in 2011, followed by meet in 2013 and in March of 2014 in Delhi.

The other major key outcome of the meet is that the three&nbsp;countries have decided to hold deputy NSA level meetings biannually to increase cooperation at the "operational level".

Significantly, a joint statement was issued by the 3 sides that said, "the past deliberations and outcomes have helped the three countries in improving close coordination in maritime security of the region".

The joint statement pointed to the "significance of the forum" for "promoting meaningful cooperation in the Indian Ocean region on common issues pertaining to maritime security".

During the meet, the three&nbsp;sides took stock of the "current maritime security" environment in the region and discussed "mutual cooperation" in areas such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, joint exercises, capacity building, maritime security, marine pollution, and maritime underwater heritage.

The meet comes, even as Chinese fishing and research vessels increase presence in the Indian ocean. The deep-sea Chinese fishing vessels, usually been involved in Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. 
&nbsp;

India, Maldives, Sri Lanka have agreed to expand intelligence sharing at the 4th National Security Adviser trilateral meet that happened in Colombo. The three countries, will share intelligence on issues such as terrorism, radicalization, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, and effects of climate change on the maritime environment.

India, Maldives, Sri Lanka have agreed to expand intelligence sharing at the 4th National Security Adviser trilateral meet that happened in Colombo. The three countries, will share intelligence on issues such as terrorism, radicalization, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, and effects of climate change on the maritime environment. India was represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Maldives Defense minister Mariya Didi and Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd) Kamal Gunaratne. The first such trilateral happened in 2011, followed by meet in 2013 and in March of 2014 in Delhi. The other major key outcome of the meet is that the three countries have decided to hold deputy NSA level meetings biannually to increase cooperation at the "operational level". Significantly, a joint statement was issued by the 3 sides that said, "the past deliberations and outcomes have helped the three countries in improving close coordination in maritime security of the region". The joint statement pointed to the "significance of the forum" for "promoting meaningful cooperation in the Indian Ocean region on common issues pertaining to maritime security". During the meet, the three sides took stock of the "current maritime security" environment in the region and discussed "mutual cooperation" in areas such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, joint exercises, capacity building, maritime security, marine pollution, and maritime underwater heritage. The meet comes, even as Chinese fishing and research vessels increase presence in the Indian ocean. The deep-sea Chinese fishing vessels, usually been involved in Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.

India-Maldives-Sri Lanka agree to expand intelligence sharing

A number of MoUs in the field of sports and on implementation of some high impact community development projects will be signed later today between Maldives and India in its national capital Malé. The signing comes during the visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla to the country.

Earlier today, Maldivian Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed and his Indian counterpart held official discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with&nbsp;particular emphasis "on the recovery and resilience efforts to curb the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, including boosting tourism", Maldives foreign ministry readout said.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, India had sent relief to the Maldives in terms of food, medicine.

The focus was also on "accelerating" the implementation of the ongoing development cooperation projects across the Maldives.

During the visit, FS will also hand over $100 million for the &nbsp;Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India is overall providing funding of $500 million for the project, of which $100 million is a grant and $400 million is a Line of Credit (LOC). The biggest project of the country will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi, and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometers.

During the visit, Foreign Secretary will also call-on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and have talks with ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Finance, Economic Development, Planning, Home Affairs, Tourism, and Youth &amp; Sports. FS will also call-on Speaker Mohamed Nasheed and meet with other political leaders.

Ahead of the visit, the ministry of external affairs in a release said, "The Maldives occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This time-tested and enduring relationship with the Maldives strengthened and deepened even further in recent months."

Indian FS has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, France, Germany, and UK as part of India's diplomatic outreach amidst the COVID pandemic.

A number of MoUs in the field of sports and on implementation of some high impact community development projects will be signed later today between Maldives and India in its national capital Malé.

A number of MoUs in the field of sports and on implementation of some high impact community development projects will be signed later today between Maldives and India in its national capital Malé. The signing comes during the visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla to the country. Earlier today, Maldivian Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed and his Indian counterpart held official discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with particular emphasis "on the recovery and resilience efforts to curb the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, including boosting tourism", Maldives foreign ministry readout said. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, India had sent relief to the Maldives in terms of food, medicine. The focus was also on "accelerating" the implementation of the ongoing development cooperation projects across the Maldives. During the visit, FS will also hand over $100 million for the Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India is overall providing funding of $500 million for the project, of which $100 million is a grant and $400 million is a Line of Credit (LOC). The biggest project of the country will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi, and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometers. During the visit, Foreign Secretary will also call-on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and have talks with ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Finance, Economic Development, Planning, Home Affairs, Tourism, and Youth & Sports. FS will also call-on Speaker Mohamed Nasheed and meet with other political leaders. Ahead of the visit, the ministry of external affairs in a release said, "The Maldives occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This time-tested and enduring relationship with the Maldives strengthened and deepened even further in recent months." Indian FS has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, France, Germany, and UK as part of India's diplomatic outreach amidst the COVID pandemic.

With focus on development projects, India-Maldives to sign MOUs; discuss COVID crisis

The Maldives received Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft by Indian Navy on Tuesday, which has been termed as a "colossal milestone" between the defence ties of the two countries.&nbsp;

The aircraft will help the country in Maritime &amp; exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, humanitarian assistance, disaster and medical relief. It will be especially helpful for the Maldivians in the northern atolls and also identifying foreign vessels, something that has increased presence in the Indian Ocean Region.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Maldives Defense minister Mariya Didi said, "As a country with over 99 per cent of its territory covered by the sea we have always worked together with our friends across the ocean to protect our domestic interests from pirates, drug smugglers and poachers. Our national defence forces are the first responders in search and rescue operations and in providing humanitarian relief as per law and by duty."

"The request for a Dornier initiated by the former administration in 2016 which we saw materialize today will go a long way in increasing our capacity to tackle these challenges. It’s a colossal milestone in defence relations and adds a new chapter to the continued cooperation between our two countries."

All in all, the Dornier will in the command and control of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and will be flown with MNDF flag and colours. Maldivian pilots have been training on it since 2017.&nbsp;

Maldives National Defence Force release said it will be, "used in surveillance and monitoring of Maldivian waters, monitoring Maldivian maritime fishing grounds and identifying foreign vessels, in anti-drug (and other illegal substances) and human trafficking operations, as well as in search and rescue missions and to provide humanitarian assistance."

It was in 2016, that the request for a Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft was raised during the visit of the then President Yameen of the Maldives to India, after the President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih government of Maldives was able to fast track it.&nbsp;

It comes even as India and Maldives have been doing joint surveillance of exclusive economic zone in which the aircraft will be helpful. Since 2009 both Maldivian Coast Guard and Indian Navy have conducted 54 joint aerial surveillance operations to safeguard Maldivian waters.

The Maldives received Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft by Indian Navy on Tuesday, which has been termed as a "colossal milestone" between the defence ties of the two countries.

The Maldives received Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft by Indian Navy on Tuesday, which has been termed as a "colossal milestone" between the defence ties of the two countries. The aircraft will help the country in Maritime & exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, humanitarian assistance, disaster and medical relief. It will be especially helpful for the Maldivians in the northern atolls and also identifying foreign vessels, something that has increased presence in the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking exclusively to WION, Maldives Defense minister Mariya Didi said, "As a country with over 99 per cent of its territory covered by the sea we have always worked together with our friends across the ocean to protect our domestic interests from pirates, drug smugglers and poachers. Our national defence forces are the first responders in search and rescue operations and in providing humanitarian relief as per law and by duty." "The request for a Dornier initiated by the former administration in 2016 which we saw materialize today will go a long way in increasing our capacity to tackle these challenges. It’s a colossal milestone in defence relations and adds a new chapter to the continued cooperation between our two countries." All in all, the Dornier will in the command and control of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and will be flown with MNDF flag and colours. Maldivian pilots have been training on it since 2017. Maldives National Defence Force release said it will be, "used in surveillance and monitoring of Maldivian waters, monitoring Maldivian maritime fishing grounds and identifying foreign vessels, in anti-drug (and other illegal substances) and human trafficking operations, as well as in search and rescue missions and to provide humanitarian assistance." It was in 2016, that the request for a Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft was raised during the visit of the then President Yameen of the Maldives to India, after the President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih government of Maldives was able to fast track it. It comes even as India and Maldives have been doing joint surveillance of exclusive economic zone in which the aircraft will be helpful. Since 2009 both Maldivian Coast Guard and Indian Navy have conducted 54 joint aerial surveillance operations to safeguard Maldivian waters.

Colossal milestone, says Maldives defence minister as India's gift Dornier surveillance aircraft reaches the country

A year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised a ferry service between India and Maldives, the service was formally launched on Monday. The service connects Indian ports of Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives.&nbsp;

PM Modi during his visit to the country last year announced in the Maldives Parliament or People's Majlis the ferry service. The visit was his first foreign visit after taking charge as the PM in the second term.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maldives-will-support-each-other-in-fight-against-health-economic-impact-of-covid-19-pm-modi-329129" hreflang="en">'India, Maldives will support each other in fight against impact of COVID-19'</a>

India's minister of state for shipping Mansukh Mandaviya speaking at the virtual event inaugurating the service said, "fulfilled the important commitment of PM to the Maldives last year. The service will increase people to people contact between the two&nbsp;countries and assist in ensuring food security and stable and predictable trade for the people of Maldives". India's envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir was also present in the virtual event.

The Cargo Ferry Vessel MCP Linz operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) will connect the Indian and Maldivian ports. The vessel is expected to arrive in Kulhudhuhfushi on September 26 and Male on September 28.&nbsp;

Aishath Nahula, Maldives Transport minister said the service will "empower northern islands of Maldives. And is a key milestone to decentralize economic activity". Kulhudhuhfushi is a port in the north of Maldives.

The vessel which is used for ferry service can carry 380 TEUs and 3000 MT on bulk cargo and has refrigerated containers. The Cargo service will open the large India market for Tuna exporters of Maldives and will further provide a springboard to Europe through Cochin and Tuticorin ports. Cochin Port has weekly connectivity to Europe through a 6500 TEU vessel.

The decision to commence the Cargo Ferry Service between the two countries was announced during a virtual meeting between EAM Dr.S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid in the month of August. India will subsidise the service at approx $ 3 million. 
&nbsp;

A year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised a ferry service between India and Maldives, the service was formally launched on Monday. The service connects Indian ports of Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives.

A year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised a ferry service between India and Maldives, the service was formally launched on Monday. The service connects Indian ports of Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives. PM Modi during his visit to the country last year announced in the Maldives Parliament or People's Majlis the ferry service. The visit was his first foreign visit after taking charge as the PM in the second term. Also read: 'India, Maldives will support each other in fight against impact of COVID-19' India's minister of state for shipping Mansukh Mandaviya speaking at the virtual event inaugurating the service said, "fulfilled the important commitment of PM to the Maldives last year. The service will increase people to people contact between the two countries and assist in ensuring food security and stable and predictable trade for the people of Maldives". India's envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir was also present in the virtual event. The Cargo Ferry Vessel MCP Linz operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) will connect the Indian and Maldivian ports. The vessel is expected to arrive in Kulhudhuhfushi on September 26 and Male on September 28. Aishath Nahula, Maldives Transport minister said the service will "empower northern islands of Maldives. And is a key milestone to decentralize economic activity". Kulhudhuhfushi is a port in the north of Maldives. The vessel which is used for ferry service can carry 380 TEUs and 3000 MT on bulk cargo and has refrigerated containers. The Cargo service will open the large India market for Tuna exporters of Maldives and will further provide a springboard to Europe through Cochin and Tuticorin ports. Cochin Port has weekly connectivity to Europe through a 6500 TEU vessel. The decision to commence the Cargo Ferry Service between the two countries was announced during a virtual meeting between EAM Dr.S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid in the month of August. India will subsidise the service at approx $ 3 million.

India, Maldives get connected by ferry service; opens vast Indian market for Maldivian exporters

India has announced its support for the largest infrastructure project of Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP).

India will provide funding of $500 million for the project which that will increase connectivity between the country. The $500 financial package consisting of a grant of $ 100 million and a new Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 400 million.&nbsp;

The announcement came after virtual meet between eternal affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar (EAM) and Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.&nbsp;

The project was a key election promise of the ruling MDP Maldivian Democratic Party and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had personally sought India’s assistance for the project.&nbsp;

The project will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometres. Out of the total length, the bridge-section will be 2.08 kms, 780 m causeway section and 3.87 Km embankment and causeway section.&nbsp;

Villingili is near capital Male, Thilafushi is an artificial island created as a municipal landfill and a new industrial zone and Gulhifalhu will be furthered developed into industrial location.

Indian readout of the meet said,"Once completed, this landmark project will streamline connectivity between the 4 islands, thereby boosting economic activity, generating employment and promoting holistic urban development in the Malé region."

As of now 1.39 km Maldives-China Friendship bridge connecting Malé with Hulhule and Hulhumale to its east has been the most visible infra-project of the country but the new mega Indian financed projected will dwarf it once completed.&nbsp;

In Gulhifahu which is part of Greater Malé Connectivity Project, a port is being developed under India's LoC worth $800 million.

Under Indian line of credit several projects are already in construction including water supply and sewerage systems on 34 Island, Hanimadhoo International Airport Redevelopment, construction of international cricket stadium in Hulhumale, ccancer hospital in Hulhumale spaning the country geographical from the northernmost to the southernmost islands of Maldives.

Other than internal connectivity, plans to connect to India-Maldives are also underway. The cargo ferry service between Cochin to Kulhudhufushi-Malé will be operationalised within the next few months. Ministry of external affairs in its release said,"direct cargo ferry service will commence shortly."

Kulhudhuffushi known as "Heart of the North" is the capital of Haa Dhaalu Atoll and near to the Indian state of Kerala. The ferry service was announced last year during PM Modi's visit to the country.&nbsp;

India has also renewed quotas for supply of essential commodities to Maldives for the year 2020-21. The commodities include food items like potatoes, onions, rice, wheat, flour, sugar, dal and eggs as well as river sand and stone aggregates. The quotas assure food security and the supply of essential construction items in the Maldives.

During COVID-19 pandemic, India had made sure supply lines for essential food and construction materials continue to the Maldives. It also gifted 580 tons of essential food items through Mission SAGAR.

India has announced its support for the largest infrastructure project of Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India will provide funding of $500 million for the project which that will increase connectivity between the country.

India has announced its support for the largest infrastructure project of Maldives--the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP). India will provide funding of $500 million for the project which that will increase connectivity between the country. The $500 financial package consisting of a grant of $ 100 million and a new Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 400 million. The announcement came after virtual meet between eternal affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar (EAM) and Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid. The project was a key election promise of the ruling MDP Maldivian Democratic Party and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had personally sought India’s assistance for the project. The project will connect capital Malé with Villingili, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu via bridges and causeways of a total length of 6.695 kilometres. Out of the total length, the bridge-section will be 2.08 kms, 780 m causeway section and 3.87 Km embankment and causeway section. Villingili is near capital Male, Thilafushi is an artificial island created as a municipal landfill and a new industrial zone and Gulhifalhu will be furthered developed into industrial location. Indian readout of the meet said,"Once completed, this landmark project will streamline connectivity between the 4 islands, thereby boosting economic activity, generating employment and promoting holistic urban development in the Malé region." As of now 1.39 km Maldives-China Friendship bridge connecting Malé with Hulhule and Hulhumale to its east has been the most visible infra-project of the country but the new mega Indian financed projected will dwarf it once completed. In Gulhifahu which is part of Greater Malé Connectivity Project, a port is being developed under India's LoC worth $800 million. Under Indian line of credit several projects are already in construction including water supply and sewerage systems on 34 Island, Hanimadhoo International Airport Redevelopment, construction of international cricket stadium in Hulhumale, ccancer hospital in Hulhumale spaning the country geographical from the northernmost to the southernmost islands of Maldives. Other than internal connectivity, plans to connect to India-Maldives are also underway. The cargo ferry service between Cochin to Kulhudhufushi-Malé will be operationalised within the next few months. Ministry of external affairs in its release said,"direct cargo ferry service will commence shortly." Kulhudhuffushi known as "Heart of the North" is the capital of Haa Dhaalu Atoll and near to the Indian state of Kerala. The ferry service was announced last year during PM Modi's visit to the country. India has also renewed quotas for supply of essential commodities to Maldives for the year 2020-21. The commodities include food items like potatoes, onions, rice, wheat, flour, sugar, dal and eggs as well as river sand and stone aggregates. The quotas assure food security and the supply of essential construction items in the Maldives. During COVID-19 pandemic, India had made sure supply lines for essential food and construction materials continue to the Maldives. It also gifted 580 tons of essential food items through Mission SAGAR.

India to finance biggest infrastructure project for Maldives

Even has Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his family recuperates from COVID-19 in Mumbai, wishes are pouring in including from India's neighbourhood, latest being the Maldives.&nbsp;

Wishing the Bollywood megastar "speedy recovery", the speaker of the Maldives Parliament Mohamed Nasheed said," We all know that the relationship between our two nations of India and Maldives spans back many generations. Both our people eat rice and curry, tandoori and biryani. We watch Kasauti, and movies starring Shatrughan Sinha, Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha."

"It is true that the Governments of Maldives and of India haven’t necessarily had the best relationship at all times; but even during those times when that relationship was strained, we didn’t stop ‘eating rice and curry’ or stop watching Amitabh’s films".

Highlighting the close cooperation between Male and New Delhi, Nasheed, who was the former President of Maldives,&nbsp;expressed confidence that he is "certain that Maldivians and their elected leaders will be wise and make shrewd and sensible decisions regarding our foreign policy and our relationship with our closest allies and neighbours, the closest and dearest of whom is India"

He was speaking at a ceremony in which India handed over outdoor gym equipment for 61 islands of the Indian Ocean Island country. Indian envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir was present on the occasion and said, "We are very happy to be associated with this project which has the widest geographical reach &amp; beneficiaries among grant projects’’.

Maldives Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment is implementing the project under a cash grant of 8 million Maldivian rufiyaas&nbsp;extended by India.

City/Island Councils are steering 18 such projects across the Atolls covering different facets of Maldives-India cooperation, under total grant assistance of MVR 106 million from India.

Even has Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his family recuperates from COVID-19 in Mumbai, wishes are pouring in including from India's neighbourhood, latest being the Maldives.

Even has Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his family recuperates from COVID-19 in Mumbai, wishes are pouring in including from India's neighbourhood, latest being the Maldives. Wishing the Bollywood megastar "speedy recovery", the speaker of the Maldives Parliament Mohamed Nasheed said," We all know that the relationship between our two nations of India and Maldives spans back many generations. Both our people eat rice and curry, tandoori and biryani. We watch Kasauti, and movies starring Shatrughan Sinha, Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha." "It is true that the Governments of Maldives and of India haven’t necessarily had the best relationship at all times; but even during those times when that relationship was strained, we didn’t stop ‘eating rice and curry’ or stop watching Amitabh’s films". Highlighting the close cooperation between Male and New Delhi, Nasheed, who was the former President of Maldives, expressed confidence that he is "certain that Maldivians and their elected leaders will be wise and make shrewd and sensible decisions regarding our foreign policy and our relationship with our closest allies and neighbours, the closest and dearest of whom is India" He was speaking at a ceremony in which India handed over outdoor gym equipment for 61 islands of the Indian Ocean Island country. Indian envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir was present on the occasion and said, "We are very happy to be associated with this project which has the widest geographical reach & beneficiaries among grant projects’’. Maldives Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment is implementing the project under a cash grant of 8 million Maldivian rufiyaas extended by India. City/Island Councils are steering 18 such projects across the Atolls covering different facets of Maldives-India cooperation, under total grant assistance of MVR 106 million from India.

India, Maldives connected via Amitabh Bachchan, says Maldives parliament speaker

Maldives has thwarted Pakistan's attempt to single out India at a virtual meet of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Islamophobia highlighting the country's democratic credentials and multicultural society.

Speaking at the OIC United Nations envoys virtual meet, Maldives Permanent Representative in New York Ambassador Thilmeeza Hussain said, "Targetting a specific country will be like side stepping the real issue. In this light, let me state that singling out India, the largest democracy in the world and a multi-cultural society and home to over 200 million Muslims, alleging Islamophobia would be factually incorrect."

During the meeting Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram had said India is actively promoting Islamophobic.

Thilmeeza explained, "It would be detrimental to the religious harmony in the South Asian region. Islam has existed in India for centuries and it is the second-largest religion in India, with 14.2 per cent&nbsp;of the country's population. Isolated statements by motivated people and disinformation campaigns on social media should not be construed as representative of the feelings of 1.3 billion."

"Maldives cannot support any action within the OIC, that singles-out or targets India,"&nbsp;Thilmeeza added.

In the past few years, ties between India and Maldives have gone from strength to strength. New Delhi has reached out to Male during the current ongoing COVID-19 crisis while the Maldives has reaffirmed "India first" policy many times.

Maldives has thwarted Pakistan's attempt to single out India at a virtual meet of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Islamophobia highlighting the country's democratic credentials and multicultural society.

Maldives has thwarted Pakistan's attempt to single out India at a virtual meet of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Islamophobia highlighting the country's democratic credentials and multicultural society. Speaking at the OIC United Nations envoys virtual meet, Maldives Permanent Representative in New York Ambassador Thilmeeza Hussain said, "Targetting a specific country will be like side stepping the real issue. In this light, let me state that singling out India, the largest democracy in the world and a multi-cultural society and home to over 200 million Muslims, alleging Islamophobia would be factually incorrect." During the meeting Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram had said India is actively promoting Islamophobic. Thilmeeza explained, "It would be detrimental to the religious harmony in the South Asian region. Islam has existed in India for centuries and it is the second-largest religion in India, with 14.2 per cent of the country's population. Isolated statements by motivated people and disinformation campaigns on social media should not be construed as representative of the feelings of 1.3 billion." "Maldives cannot support any action within the OIC, that singles-out or targets India," Thilmeeza added. In the past few years, ties between India and Maldives have gone from strength to strength. New Delhi has reached out to Male during the current ongoing COVID-19 crisis while the Maldives has reaffirmed "India first" policy many times.

Maldives thwarts Pak attempts to single out India on Islamophobia at OIC

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mariya Didi, also lauded the role of New Delhi in evacuating its citizens from Wuhan in the aftermath of coronavirus outbreak in China.

WION: How was your visit to Def Expo in Lucknow and meet with Indian officials?

Mariya Didi: It went very well. The CDS Bipin Rawat whom I met recently when he was army chief, was friendly as well. He made the time to see me. We had a good talk. He was very forthcoming, very friendly, very frank. &nbsp;We had a good discussion. We look forward for many more defence cooperation together.

WION: Any request from the Maldives? <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-warmly-welcome-the-maldives-in-the-commonwealth-pm-modi-278067">India </a>gifted vessel Kaamiyab to your country in December...

Mariya Didi: We are very keen to have another vessel as well. We have a good positive signal from your government. The aftercare of these vessels are also concerns.&nbsp;

WION: India evacuated seven&nbsp;of your citizens from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-chinese-whistleblower-doctor-who-flagged-coronavirus-dies-279173">Wuhan</a> which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in China...

Mariya Didi: We would like to thank the government of India, as soon as we requested, you all brought our people, together with your people. They were also treated well. They all tested negative and very soon the quarantine period will be over and we hope they will be travelling to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-bans-travellers-from-china-over-virus-fears-tourism-minister-278491">Maldives</a> soon. We did have a small child in the camp and I have been briefed that they are taken care off.

WION: How do you see Chinese presence in the region and its influence?

Mariya Didi: I don't think New Delhi has any reason to worry as far as the Chinese and us are concerned.

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces.

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mariya Didi, also lauded the role of New Delhi in evacuating its citizens from Wuhan in the aftermath of coronavirus outbreak in China. WION: How was your visit to Def Expo in Lucknow and meet with Indian officials? Mariya Didi: It went very well. The CDS Bipin Rawat whom I met recently when he was army chief, was friendly as well. He made the time to see me. We had a good talk. He was very forthcoming, very friendly, very frank. We had a good discussion. We look forward for many more defence cooperation together. WION: Any request from the Maldives? India gifted vessel Kaamiyab to your country in December... Mariya Didi: We are very keen to have another vessel as well. We have a good positive signal from your government. The aftercare of these vessels are also concerns. WION: India evacuated seven of your citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in China... Mariya Didi: We would like to thank the government of India, as soon as we requested, you all brought our people, together with your people. They were also treated well. They all tested negative and very soon the quarantine period will be over and we hope they will be travelling to the Maldives soon. We did have a small child in the camp and I have been briefed that they are taken care off. WION: How do you see Chinese presence in the region and its influence? Mariya Didi: I don't think New Delhi has any reason to worry as far as the Chinese and us are concerned.

As defence ties grow, Maldives requests another vessel from India

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country.&nbsp;

The Indian Ocean Island country is facing an outbreak of the measles as &nbsp;4 cases were tested positive in last one week.

The Maldives had approached Denmark, which said that it will take one month to supply the vaccine, while UNICEF also gave around the same time-period of 4 weeks.&nbsp;

On Monday afternoon, the country's health ministry approached the Indian mission which agreed to send the consignment.

The consignment, procured from the Serum Institute of India, was handed over Maldivian health minister Abdulla Ameen. by Indian envoy to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir today.

A release from the mission said, "India’s swift response underlines that India has the capability to respond quickly and health remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation. This gesture also emphasises the mutually supportive roles of India’s neighbourhood first policy and the Maldives’ India first policy, acting for the benefit of our peoples."

New Delhi is already engaged in the Maldives' health sector. It is building a 100-bed cancer hospital in Hulhumale.

This is not the first time, India has responded to an emergency in the Maldives.&nbsp;

In 2015, India responding to the water crisis in Malé due to breakdown of the main RO plant, airlifted water and sent supplies by ship to the country.&nbsp;

In 2004, after the tsunami struck the country, it sent immediate relief.&nbsp;

In 1988, India responded to an SOS from the then President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on account of Coup with swift action by sending paratroopers onboard IL-76 aircraft.

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country.

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country. The Indian Ocean Island country is facing an outbreak of the measles as 4 cases were tested positive in last one week. The Maldives had approached Denmark, which said that it will take one month to supply the vaccine, while UNICEF also gave around the same time-period of 4 weeks. On Monday afternoon, the country's health ministry approached the Indian mission which agreed to send the consignment. The consignment, procured from the Serum Institute of India, was handed over Maldivian health minister Abdulla Ameen. by Indian envoy to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir today. A release from the mission said, "India’s swift response underlines that India has the capability to respond quickly and health remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation. This gesture also emphasises the mutually supportive roles of India’s neighbourhood first policy and the Maldives’ India first policy, acting for the benefit of our peoples." New Delhi is already engaged in the Maldives' health sector. It is building a 100-bed cancer hospital in Hulhumale. This is not the first time, India has responded to an emergency in the Maldives. In 2015, India responding to the water crisis in Malé due to breakdown of the main RO plant, airlifted water and sent supplies by ship to the country. In 2004, after the tsunami struck the country, it sent immediate relief. In 1988, India responded to an SOS from the then President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on account of Coup with swift action by sending paratroopers onboard IL-76 aircraft.

After emergency request, India sends 30 thousand measles vaccines to Maldives within 72-hours

India-Maldives joint military exercise `Ex EKUVERIN - 2019` culminated on Saturday with an impressive closing ceremony held at Foreign Training Node, Aundh Military Station, Pune.

"The 14 day Joint Training that commenced on October 7, included joint training of the contingents in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban environment under the UN mandate, developing interoperability and cohesion between both the contingents," read an official statement.

The Maldivian contingent was represented by Marine troops of Maldivian National Defence Force, while the Indian side was represented by a battalion of the MAHAR regiment.

As part of validation exercise held on Saturday, troops of both the armies carried out specialised joint counter-terrorist operations which were witnessed by dignitaries of both the armies.

The validation exercise was reviewed by Major General JJ Mathews of the Indian Army in the presence of senior Army Officers of both the participating countries.&nbsp;

The Maldivian side was represented by Brigadier General Waise Waheed. The exercise concluded with a ceremonial closing ceremony.

"Exercise EKUVERIN-2019 was very successful in increasing the bonhomie and camaraderie amongst both the participating nations. The troops shared best practices being followed by both nations in varied terrain and the exercise provided an opportunity to both the armies for greater understanding and strengthening mutual trust and cooperation," the statement read.

Starting 2009, the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force have been holding the Exercise Ekuverin, meaning `friends` in the Maldivian language, in their countries on alternating years.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India-Maldives joint military exercise `Ex EKUVERIN - 2019` culminated on Saturday with an impressive closing ceremony held at Foreign Training Node, Aundh Military Station, Pune.

India-Maldives joint military exercise `Ex EKUVERIN - 2019` culminated on Saturday with an impressive closing ceremony held at Foreign Training Node, Aundh Military Station, Pune. "The 14 day Joint Training that commenced on October 7, included joint training of the contingents in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban environment under the UN mandate, developing interoperability and cohesion between both the contingents," read an official statement. The Maldivian contingent was represented by Marine troops of Maldivian National Defence Force, while the Indian side was represented by a battalion of the MAHAR regiment. As part of validation exercise held on Saturday, troops of both the armies carried out specialised joint counter-terrorist operations which were witnessed by dignitaries of both the armies. The validation exercise was reviewed by Major General JJ Mathews of the Indian Army in the presence of senior Army Officers of both the participating countries. The Maldivian side was represented by Brigadier General Waise Waheed. The exercise concluded with a ceremonial closing ceremony. "Exercise EKUVERIN-2019 was very successful in increasing the bonhomie and camaraderie amongst both the participating nations. The troops shared best practices being followed by both nations in varied terrain and the exercise provided an opportunity to both the armies for greater understanding and strengthening mutual trust and cooperation," the statement read. Starting 2009, the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force have been holding the Exercise Ekuverin, meaning `friends` in the Maldivian language, in their countries on alternating years.

Pune: India-Maldives joint military exercise 'Ex EKUVERIN - 2019' culminates

In this segment of WION, We exclusively in conversation With Bhaswati Mukherjee, Former Diplomat To WION.

WION Exclusive: In Conversation With Bhaswati Mukherjee, Former Diplomat To India

PM Modi addresses in Maldives' Parliament Majlis. He said, ''Maldives is one of the close friends to India.'' PM Modi gifts cricket bat to Maldivian President. 'Ardent Cricket Fan' Solih gets team India signed on bat. Cricket bat has been signed by India's World Cup Team. Watch this video to know more.

Maldives: PM Modi's Majlis Parliament Address

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-conferred-with-maldives-highest-honour-accorded-to-foreign-dignitaries-order-of-nishanizzuddeen-225498">Narendra Modi </a>said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-ibrahim-solih-hails-india-maldives-relations-225509">country to consolidate people-to-people relations</a>.

Modi gifted a cricket bat to Solih signed by the Indian cricket team after holding bilateral talks.

"Connected by cricket! My friend, President Solih is an ardent cricket fan, so I presented him a cricket bat that has been signed by Team India playing at the CWC2019," Modi said on Twitter.

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<img alt="India-Maldives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88dc6df0-789e-4f0a-a6ad-16ba2150fa8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190608-WA0051.jpg" />

India is helping in training Maldivian cricket players and bringing it up to the requisite standard, the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Thursday.

India is also looking into constructing a stadium in the Island nation which is another request made by it, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

He said the ministry is working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to train Maldivian cricketers.

"A team from the BCCI visited the Maldives earlier in May for the training of Maldivian cricketers, organising coaching programmes and supply of kits," he said.

To consolidate people-to-people relations, Modi's latest emphasis is on cricket diplomacy in the island nation, helping the mission of President Solih to develop cricket, official sources said.

In April, Solih attended an Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Bengaluru and subsequently expressed interest to develop a cricket team in the Maldives and sought India's assistance in training this team and bringing it up to the requisite standard.

Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister to strengthen the bilateral ties.

While Modi visited the Maldives in November 2018 to attend President Solih's swearing-in, this visit is the first by an Indian prime minister at a bilateral level in eight years.

The two-day state visit of Prime Minister Modi is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago.

India in March assured the Maldives that it will "positively consider" its request to help build a cricket stadium in the island nation during then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit.

A joint statement at the end of Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March said that the Maldivian side requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium.

"The Indian side agreed to positively consider the request," it said.

Cricket Board of Maldives governs the gentleman's game in the island nation. It became a member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate of the International Cricket Council in 1998.

The Maldives national cricket team represents the country in international cricket. It made its Twenty20 International debut in January this year after the

International Cricket Council decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members.

Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the country to consolidate people-to-people relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the country to consolidate people-to-people relations. Modi gifted a cricket bat to Solih signed by the Indian cricket team after holding bilateral talks. "Connected by cricket! My friend, President Solih is an ardent cricket fan, so I presented him a cricket bat that has been signed by Team India playing at the CWC2019," Modi said on Twitter. India is helping in training Maldivian cricket players and bringing it up to the requisite standard, the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Thursday. India is also looking into constructing a stadium in the Island nation which is another request made by it, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. He said the ministry is working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to train Maldivian cricketers. "A team from the BCCI visited the Maldives earlier in May for the training of Maldivian cricketers, organising coaching programmes and supply of kits," he said. To consolidate people-to-people relations, Modi's latest emphasis is on cricket diplomacy in the island nation, helping the mission of President Solih to develop cricket, official sources said. In April, Solih attended an Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Bengaluru and subsequently expressed interest to develop a cricket team in the Maldives and sought India's assistance in training this team and bringing it up to the requisite standard. Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister to strengthen the bilateral ties. While Modi visited the Maldives in November 2018 to attend President Solih's swearing-in, this visit is the first by an Indian prime minister at a bilateral level in eight years. The two-day state visit of Prime Minister Modi is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago. India in March assured the Maldives that it will "positively consider" its request to help build a cricket stadium in the island nation during then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit. A joint statement at the end of Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March said that the Maldivian side requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium. "The Indian side agreed to positively consider the request," it said. Cricket Board of Maldives governs the gentleman's game in the island nation. It became a member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate of the International Cricket Council in 1998. The Maldives national cricket team represents the country in international cricket. It made its Twenty20 International debut in January this year after the International Cricket Council decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members. Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000.

Focus on cricket diplomacy as PM Modi gifts bat to Maldives President Solih

India on Saturday reaffirmed its ties with the Maldives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that New Delhi will always stand with the Indian Ocean archipelago&nbsp;and give it utmost priority.&nbsp;

Modi in his address after holding bilateral talks with country's&nbsp;President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, said, "India gives utmost importance to its relationship with the Maldives. We want to have a strong partnership with each other, adding that it is "willing to help in every way possible."

"May the friendship between India and Maldives last forever," PM Modi added.

Mentioning Solih's December visit, Modi spoke about India's development aid to the country and support to projects like community development centres, water supply,&nbsp;sewerage services, SME development financing and several other projects.

"People of our countries want stability and development", PM Modi said.

During the address, he reiterated the Indian government's "Neighbourhood First" policy and stressed on the "high importance" that India attaches to its relationship with the Maldives.

President Solih also congratulated PM Modi for his overwhelming mandate in the recently concluded&nbsp;general elections and reaffirmed his government’s "India-First Policy".

The two leaders reaffirmed their "unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, both within the region and elsewhere."

India and Maldives have agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on counter-terrorism, countering violent extremism and de-radicalisation.

India will support the conservation of Friday mosque (Hukuru Miskiy), which was built using Coral in Addu and to boost connectivity between the countries a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service will be launched between Kochi in India to Kulhudhuffushi and Malé in the Maldives.

To strengthen Maldives' defence, both leaders jointly inaugurated two important defence related projects--One is the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF).

The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility to its forces. The coastal surveillance radar will have 10 autonomous radar systems across the country &amp; will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

Six MoUs between the 2 countries, including in Hydrography, Health, Customs, Establishment of Passenger and Cargo Services by Sea, training of civil servants and Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force

PM Modi arrived in the country on Saturday afternoon and was received at the airport by Foreign minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid and Indian envoy to the country Sanjay Sudhir. This is his first foreign visit abroad in his second term. He was later accorded ceremonial reception at capital's Male's Republic square, followed by a bilateral meet with President of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.&nbsp;

India on Saturday reaffirmed its ties with the Maldives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that New Delhi will always stand with the Indian Ocean archipelago and give it utmost priority.

India on Saturday reaffirmed its ties with the Maldives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that New Delhi will always stand with the Indian Ocean archipelago and give it utmost priority. Modi in his address after holding bilateral talks with country's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, said, "India gives utmost importance to its relationship with the Maldives. We want to have a strong partnership with each other, adding that it is "willing to help in every way possible." "May the friendship between India and Maldives last forever," PM Modi added. Mentioning Solih's December visit, Modi spoke about India's development aid to the country and support to projects like community development centres, water supply, sewerage services, SME development financing and several other projects. "People of our countries want stability and development", PM Modi said. During the address, he reiterated the Indian government's "Neighbourhood First" policy and stressed on the "high importance" that India attaches to its relationship with the Maldives. President Solih also congratulated PM Modi for his overwhelming mandate in the recently concluded general elections and reaffirmed his government’s "India-First Policy". The two leaders reaffirmed their "unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, both within the region and elsewhere." India and Maldives have agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on counter-terrorism, countering violent extremism and de-radicalisation. India will support the conservation of Friday mosque (Hukuru Miskiy), which was built using Coral in Addu and to boost connectivity between the countries a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service will be launched between Kochi in India to Kulhudhuffushi and Malé in the Maldives. To strengthen Maldives' defence, both leaders jointly inaugurated two important defence related projects--One is the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF). The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility to its forces. The coastal surveillance radar will have 10 autonomous radar systems across the country & will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone. Six MoUs between the 2 countries, including in Hydrography, Health, Customs, Establishment of Passenger and Cargo Services by Sea, training of civil servants and Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force PM Modi arrived in the country on Saturday afternoon and was received at the airport by Foreign minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid and Indian envoy to the country Sanjay Sudhir. This is his first foreign visit abroad in his second term. He was later accorded ceremonial reception at capital's Male's Republic square, followed by a bilateral meet with President of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Important for world community to come together to fight challenge of terrorism and radicalisation: PM Modi

PM Modi gave speech in Maldives. He said, ''Maldives is one of the close friends to India.'' PM Modi gifts cricket bat to Maldivian President. 'Ardent Cricket Fan' Solih gets team India signed on bat. Cricket bat has been signed by India's World Cup Team. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi's Speech In Maldives; Modi says, ''Maldives is one of close friend to India''

Ahead of Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-maldives-to-address-parliament-of-maldives-225458">Narendra Modi's&nbsp;Maldives'&nbsp;visit</a>,&nbsp;Minister of Youth, sports and community empowerment Ahmed Mahloof, Maldives&nbsp;said they had "successful meeting with India's&nbsp;Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)"&nbsp;and now expect that they will help the neighbouring island country in developing cricket.

"India's support would mean a lot to us,"&nbsp;Mahloof added.

Mahloof also said that "Like Afghanistan Cricket Board was adopted by BCCI, it has an expectation that the board will also help the Maldives in the "area of cricket".

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Minister of Youth,Sports&amp;Community Empowerment of Maldives,Ahmed Mahloof: We received a lot of support from the Indian govt in area of youth &amp; sports. We had a successful meeting with BCCI&amp; we expect they will help us develop cricket here. India's support would mean a lot to us. <a href="https://t.co/QuBQ0dkrzh">pic.twitter.com/QuBQ0dkrzh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1137288722137772032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Maldives is keen to have its own cricket team and a cricket stadium and asked for Indian assistance.&nbsp;

India in May sent a team of BCCI to the Maldives for the training of Maldivian cricketers.&nbsp;

India has also given cricket kits and is expected to coach Maldivian cricketers.&nbsp;

Earlier, India had invited President Solih in April for an IPL match in Bengaluru. India sees it as important "people to people" exercise and has in the past helped countries like Afghanistan.

PM Modi arrives in the Maldives on Saturday on his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-to-honour-pm-modi-with-highest-award-offered-to-foreign-dignitaries-225426">first foreign visit</a> after re-election as Prime Minister, reflecting the importance India attaches to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

Modi was received at Male airport by Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.

The visit is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago.

Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Maldives' visit, Minister of Youth, sports and community empowerment Ahmed Mahloof, Maldives said they had "successful meeting with India's Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)" and now expect that they will help the neighbouring island country in developing cricket.

Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Maldives' visit, Minister of Youth, sports and community empowerment Ahmed Mahloof, Maldives said they had "successful meeting with India's Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)" and now expect that they will help the neighbouring island country in developing cricket. "India's support would mean a lot to us," Mahloof added. Mahloof also said that "Like Afghanistan Cricket Board was adopted by BCCI, it has an expectation that the board will also help the Maldives in the "area of cricket". Minister of Youth,Sports&Community Empowerment of Maldives,Ahmed Mahloof: We received a lot of support from the Indian govt in area of youth & sports. We had a successful meeting with BCCI& we expect they will help us develop cricket here. India's support would mean a lot to us. pic.twitter.com/QuBQ0dkrzh — ANI (@ANI) June 8, 2019 × The Maldives is keen to have its own cricket team and a cricket stadium and asked for Indian assistance. India in May sent a team of BCCI to the Maldives for the training of Maldivian cricketers. India has also given cricket kits and is expected to coach Maldivian cricketers. Earlier, India had invited President Solih in April for an IPL match in Bengaluru. India sees it as important "people to people" exercise and has in the past helped countries like Afghanistan. PM Modi arrives in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister, reflecting the importance India attaches to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Modi was received at Male airport by Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid. The visit is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago.

'We expect India's BCCI help us in area of cricket,' says Maldives sports minister

India playing wider role in Maldives: Mohamed Jameel Ahmed at WION Global Summit

The elections to state legislatures in India have for the past few months engrossed the specialist analysts and lay audience alike. The results, it is widely believed, will indicate which way the political wind is blowing. This has distracted us from taking note of significant developments in the neighbourhood. It’s time that we turn our gaze outwards and take stalk of the strategic situation in the flux.

In the Maldives and in Sri Lanka the situation appears to have changed in favour of India. In the atoll island it was the presidential elections that threw out the incumbent who had adopted a hostile posture towards India throughout his tenure and in Sri Lanka the country’s Supreme Court stepped in to resolve - at least for the moment- a constitutional crisis and a coup of sorts to instal Mahinda Rajapaksa was nipped in the bud. In both cases, the change in circumstances was not a result of Indian diplomatic exertions or efforts to tilt the balance in its favour.

No one in his right mind can ever suggest that India should interfere in the internal affairs of a neighbour but the fact is that it can not remain indifferent to continued strife and political instability in its immediate neighbourhood.&nbsp;

Nor can it turn a blind eye to Chinese machinations to encircle India and spread misinformation about India. Both in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, the Chinese have tried to upstage and oust India from infrastructural projects and replace it as the leading strategic partner in economic and technical sphere.&nbsp;

Regime change in Male and restoration of status quo in Colombo had naturally aroused hopes that the balance was now tilting in favour of India. Now, it seems that the rejoicing was hasty. Sri Lanka continues to be under strong pressure to honour its ‘contractual commitment’ to PRC and Maldives too has lost no time in signalling that it will maintain friendly equidistance between India and China. We have to be patient with Sri Lanka; the most important thing is not to let our policy remain a hostage to Dravidian party politics in Tamil Nadu. The country has already paid a heavy price for this folly.

The challenges are far more complex in Nepal where India has allowed the ground to steadily slip from under its feet. Not only is the present government proud of flaunting its proximity to Beijing it doesn’t miss an opportunity to embarrass Indians. Outstanding disputes may be resolved-more like brushed under the carpet at the time of a state visit- but are likely to resurface in a more twisted form soon enough.

As we scan the horizons in the Indian Ocean with swelling pride to carve a role in Indo-Pacific region we can ill afford to neglect this landlocked perpetually disgruntled prickly neighbour. Neither juiciest carrots nor hard talk seem to make the slightest difference.&nbsp;

To our mind, there is certainly an improvement in the milieu but Indians will have to tread gently and talk little very softly in the coming months to build broken bridges. It is imperative to have a stick around but to keep it out of sight! 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The elections to state legislatures in India have for the past few months engrossed the specialist analysts and lay audience alike. The results, it is widely believed, will indicate which way the political wind is blowing.

The elections to state legislatures in India have for the past few months engrossed the specialist analysts and lay audience alike. The results, it is widely believed, will indicate which way the political wind is blowing. This has distracted us from taking note of significant developments in the neighbourhood. It’s time that we turn our gaze outwards and take stalk of the strategic situation in the flux. In the Maldives and in Sri Lanka the situation appears to have changed in favour of India. In the atoll island it was the presidential elections that threw out the incumbent who had adopted a hostile posture towards India throughout his tenure and in Sri Lanka the country’s Supreme Court stepped in to resolve - at least for the moment- a constitutional crisis and a coup of sorts to instal Mahinda Rajapaksa was nipped in the bud. In both cases, the change in circumstances was not a result of Indian diplomatic exertions or efforts to tilt the balance in its favour. No one in his right mind can ever suggest that India should interfere in the internal affairs of a neighbour but the fact is that it can not remain indifferent to continued strife and political instability in its immediate neighbourhood. Nor can it turn a blind eye to Chinese machinations to encircle India and spread misinformation about India. Both in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, the Chinese have tried to upstage and oust India from infrastructural projects and replace it as the leading strategic partner in economic and technical sphere. Regime change in Male and restoration of status quo in Colombo had naturally aroused hopes that the balance was now tilting in favour of India. Now, it seems that the rejoicing was hasty. Sri Lanka continues to be under strong pressure to honour its ‘contractual commitment’ to PRC and Maldives too has lost no time in signalling that it will maintain friendly equidistance between India and China. We have to be patient with Sri Lanka; the most important thing is not to let our policy remain a hostage to Dravidian party politics in Tamil Nadu. The country has already paid a heavy price for this folly. The challenges are far more complex in Nepal where India has allowed the ground to steadily slip from under its feet. Not only is the present government proud of flaunting its proximity to Beijing it doesn’t miss an opportunity to embarrass Indians. Outstanding disputes may be resolved-more like brushed under the carpet at the time of a state visit- but are likely to resurface in a more twisted form soon enough. As we scan the horizons in the Indian Ocean with swelling pride to carve a role in Indo-Pacific region we can ill afford to neglect this landlocked perpetually disgruntled prickly neighbour. Neither juiciest carrots nor hard talk seem to make the slightest difference. To our mind, there is certainly an improvement in the milieu but Indians will have to tread gently and talk little very softly in the coming months to build broken bridges. It is imperative to have a stick around but to keep it out of sight! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

From Sri Lanka to Maldives, India must tread cautiously and softly

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

The surprise defeat of pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen has opened a window for India, the strategic outpost's traditional political partner, to regain ground lost to Beijing in their tussle for regional dominance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration at the national soccer stadium in the capital Male. By contrast, China's highest-ranking attendee will be Culture and Tourism Minister Luo Shugang.

"I will convey to the new Maldivian government ... the desire of my government to work closely for realisation of their developmental priorities, especially in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development," the Indian prime minister said in a post on Facebook.

Modi's presence signals the end of years of frosty relations because of Yameen's embrace of China, a relationship that had deepened India's anxieties about being encircled by countries leaning towards Beijing.

In Sri Lanka, an island nation to the southeast of India, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing has been one of the triggers for a political crisis in recent weeks.

"India-first"

The low-key Solih, a veteran lawmaker, has promised an "India first" policy in the Maldives, saying the small nation of a little over 400,000 people needs solid ties with its immediate neighbour.

His team is also reviewing millions of dollars of investments from China, as well as the related debt that the country has run up from Chinese lenders and how to restructure it. Solih has said investigations will be launched to find out what happened and fix accountability, Adam Azim, a member of his transition committee, told reporters on Thursday.

"We were led to believe it's about $1.5 billion, the Chinese debt, but it could be worse," said another member of Solih's top economic team, which has been holding discussions with finance ministry officials during the transition following the election in September.

He said the team had already reached out to India, the United States and Saudi Arabia for financial assistance so it could tackle the debt.

"We straightaway need 200-300 million dollars to kick-start the budgetary support," the adviser said.

Debt of $1.5 billion would be more than a quarter of the country's annual gross domestic product. Another member of the incoming president's economic team said firm proposals for assistance had been discussed with Indian and U.S. officials.

"Friendship"&nbsp;bridge

Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls in the turquoise waters.

Some 400 Chinese workers this year completed the mile-long China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which towers over the city connecting the airport on one island to the capital on another.

The airport itself is undergoing expansion, with a second runway to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive each day.

The airport development is an especially sore point with India, after the Maldivian government cancelled a $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited.

The Yameen administration also threw open new islands and lagoons from the 1,192 islands that make up the necklace-shaped archipelago for development of resorts.

"There is such secrecy surrounding all these deals that it will take us weeks to figure out what went on," said Mariya Ahmad, an MP and spokeswoman for Solih.

Sensing an opportunity, India has told Solih's team it stands ready to help, Indian government officials in New Delhi and Maldivian authorities in Male said.

India had provided a $75 million credit line some years ago, of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration, an Indian government official said.

There is also a currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority that could help maintain financial stability, the official said.

Modi, making his first visit since taking office in 2014, will hold talks with Solih before the inauguration.

India has had a long-standing defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, providing coastal security and patrols of its exclusive economic zone. But Yameen saw such co-operation as a cover for surveillance and had asked India to withdraw two military helicopters along with 50 military personnel this year.

The Indians had refused and now officials in Delhi said they expected the visas of the personnel involved in the operations to be renewed.

"In keeping with its neighbourhood first policy, India looks forward to closely working with Maldives in further deepening the partnership," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.

A diplomatic source said the United States was also set to increase its engagement with the Maldives. Its relations had also become strained because of Yameen's crackdown on political rivals and supreme court justices.

But China remains a big player, given the investments by its state companies and as Chinese tourists pour in. That means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel.

Between January to October this year, 247,911 Chinese tourists arrived, accounting for a fifth of all visitors. India, which is much closer geographically, provided just 5 per cent.

China's embassy did not respond to a request for comment about concerns that its projects had pushed the Maldives into financial difficulties. Soon after Solih's victory, Beijing had said it hoped the new government would maintain continuity in its policies and create good conditions for Chinese firms.

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands. The surprise defeat of pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen has opened a window for India, the strategic outpost's traditional political partner, to regain ground lost to Beijing in their tussle for regional dominance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration at the national soccer stadium in the capital Male. By contrast, China's highest-ranking attendee will be Culture and Tourism Minister Luo Shugang. "I will convey to the new Maldivian government ... the desire of my government to work closely for realisation of their developmental priorities, especially in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development," the Indian prime minister said in a post on Facebook. Modi's presence signals the end of years of frosty relations because of Yameen's embrace of China, a relationship that had deepened India's anxieties about being encircled by countries leaning towards Beijing. In Sri Lanka, an island nation to the southeast of India, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing has been one of the triggers for a political crisis in recent weeks. "India-first" The low-key Solih, a veteran lawmaker, has promised an "India first" policy in the Maldives, saying the small nation of a little over 400,000 people needs solid ties with its immediate neighbour. His team is also reviewing millions of dollars of investments from China, as well as the related debt that the country has run up from Chinese lenders and how to restructure it. Solih has said investigations will be launched to find out what happened and fix accountability, Adam Azim, a member of his transition committee, told reporters on Thursday. "We were led to believe it's about $1.5 billion, the Chinese debt, but it could be worse," said another member of Solih's top economic team, which has been holding discussions with finance ministry officials during the transition following the election in September. He said the team had already reached out to India, the United States and Saudi Arabia for financial assistance so it could tackle the debt. "We straightaway need 200-300 million dollars to kick-start the budgetary support," the adviser said. Debt of $1.5 billion would be more than a quarter of the country's annual gross domestic product. Another member of the incoming president's economic team said firm proposals for assistance had been discussed with Indian and U.S. officials. "Friendship" bridge Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls in the turquoise waters. Some 400 Chinese workers this year completed the mile-long China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which towers over the city connecting the airport on one island to the capital on another. The airport itself is undergoing expansion, with a second runway to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive each day. The airport development is an especially sore point with India, after the Maldivian government cancelled a $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited. The Yameen administration also threw open new islands and lagoons from the 1,192 islands that make up the necklace-shaped archipelago for development of resorts. "There is such secrecy surrounding all these deals that it will take us weeks to figure out what went on," said Mariya Ahmad, an MP and spokeswoman for Solih. Sensing an opportunity, India has told Solih's team it stands ready to help, Indian government officials in New Delhi and Maldivian authorities in Male said. India had provided a $75 million credit line some years ago, of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration, an Indian government official said. There is also a currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority that could help maintain financial stability, the official said. Modi, making his first visit since taking office in 2014, will hold talks with Solih before the inauguration. India has had a long-standing defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, providing coastal security and patrols of its exclusive economic zone. But Yameen saw such co-operation as a cover for surveillance and had asked India to withdraw two military helicopters along with 50 military personnel this year. The Indians had refused and now officials in Delhi said they expected the visas of the personnel involved in the operations to be renewed. "In keeping with its neighbourhood first policy, India looks forward to closely working with Maldives in further deepening the partnership," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said. A diplomatic source said the United States was also set to increase its engagement with the Maldives. Its relations had also become strained because of Yameen's crackdown on political rivals and supreme court justices. But China remains a big player, given the investments by its state companies and as Chinese tourists pour in. That means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel. Between January to October this year, 247,911 Chinese tourists arrived, accounting for a fifth of all visitors. India, which is much closer geographically, provided just 5 per cent. China's embassy did not respond to a request for comment about concerns that its projects had pushed the Maldives into financial difficulties. Soon after Solih's victory, Beijing had said it hoped the new government would maintain continuity in its policies and create good conditions for Chinese firms.

PM Modi embraces Maldives as new leader Solih takes office

PM Modi will be visiting the Maldives on Saturday to take part in the oath-taking ceremony of new president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. He will be leaving Delhi around noon time. The oath-taking ceremony will be taking place at 5 pm local time. Among the foreign leaders present in the oath ceremony, India's representation is amongst the highest level.&nbsp;

Announcing the visit MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had last week said, "Prime Minister has accepted the invitation with pleasure. In keeping with her Neighborhood First policy, India looks forward to closely working with the Maldives in further deepening our partnership. PM will return to New Delhi on the same night"&nbsp;

Welcoming Indian PM's participation, Mariya Didi, Spokesperson of President-elect Solih had tweeted - "Delighted to hear that the Indian PM @narendramodi @PMOIndia has accepted President-Elect @ibusolih’s invitation and will attend the Presidential inauguration. We look forward to a new era of friendship and co-operation with India in the years ahead @PresElectMv @AkhileshIFS"

PM Modi had called Solih after his election victory and congratulated him on his victory in the Presidential elections. Prime Minister Modi also conveyed his "good wishes for the strengthening of democracy, peace and prosperity in the Maldives" under the leadership of Solih.&nbsp;

Experts believe visit by India PM to the Maldives sends a message. A message that India fully backs in new government in the Maldives. Interestingly, Maldives is the only SAARC country that Modi has not visited since taking over in 2014. The 2nd Quad meeting that took place in Singapore this year also discussed the Maldives with statements from Washington, Canberra and Tokyo all calling to support the new govt in the Maldives.&nbsp;

Sigh of relief for Delhi

Since the change in Maldives due to the elections, its a sigh of relief in Delhi because India-Maldives relations under President Yameen had suffered. President Yameen junked "India First" policy and was pro-China. Yameen allowed a number of Chinese Infrastructure projects in the country and gave a go-ahead to Maldives China Free trade agreement.&nbsp;

Under Yameen, people to people ties also suffered from visas and work permit being denied to Indians. Former President Nasheed speaking to WION had slammed Yameen's informal ban on Indians and said, "that will have a negative impact on the Maldives as most of the skilled force come from India". &nbsp;

Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000. Of the country’s approximately 400 doctors, over 125 are Indians. Similarly, around 25 per cent of teachers in the Maldives are Indians

Recently Dunya Maumoon, daughter of Abdul Gayoom who was the longest-serving president of Maldives and architect of democracy in the country visited New Delhi.

She met India's external affairs minister during the visit. Speaking to WION during her Delhi visit, she lambasted Yameen and said, "While he brought some development, mostly a lot of people lived in fear and in an environment of a lot of political persecution. Using the court he was able to lock up and convict a lot of innocent people under various charges this included my father who at his age and given his health, it was a difficult time for him personally. My mother, my family. My brother, my brother in law were imprisoned. And many many other political figures with whom he was threatened were put in jail."

China, Japan to send representatives&nbsp;

Both China &amp; Japan are also sending representatives. China will be sending President Xi Jinping's Special Envoy and Minister of Culture and Tourism Luo Shugang who is already in the country.

Japan will be sending the member of the House of Representatives and President of the Japan-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship League, Wataru Takeshita. He is going to Male as Special Envoy of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

PM Modi will be visiting the Maldives on Saturday to take part in the oath-taking ceremony of new president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. He will be leaving Delhi around noon time.

PM Modi will be visiting the Maldives on Saturday to take part in the oath-taking ceremony of new president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. He will be leaving Delhi around noon time. The oath-taking ceremony will be taking place at 5 pm local time. Among the foreign leaders present in the oath ceremony, India's representation is amongst the highest level. Announcing the visit MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had last week said, "Prime Minister has accepted the invitation with pleasure. In keeping with her Neighborhood First policy, India looks forward to closely working with the Maldives in further deepening our partnership. PM will return to New Delhi on the same night" Welcoming Indian PM's participation, Mariya Didi, Spokesperson of President-elect Solih had tweeted - "Delighted to hear that the Indian PM @narendramodi @PMOIndia has accepted President-Elect @ibusolih’s invitation and will attend the Presidential inauguration. We look forward to a new era of friendship and co-operation with India in the years ahead @PresElectMv @AkhileshIFS" PM Modi had called Solih after his election victory and congratulated him on his victory in the Presidential elections. Prime Minister Modi also conveyed his "good wishes for the strengthening of democracy, peace and prosperity in the Maldives" under the leadership of Solih. Experts believe visit by India PM to the Maldives sends a message. A message that India fully backs in new government in the Maldives. Interestingly, Maldives is the only SAARC country that Modi has not visited since taking over in 2014. The 2nd Quad meeting that took place in Singapore this year also discussed the Maldives with statements from Washington, Canberra and Tokyo all calling to support the new govt in the Maldives. Sigh of relief for Delhi Since the change in Maldives due to the elections, its a sigh of relief in Delhi because India-Maldives relations under President Yameen had suffered. President Yameen junked "India First" policy and was pro-China. Yameen allowed a number of Chinese Infrastructure projects in the country and gave a go-ahead to Maldives China Free trade agreement. Under Yameen, people to people ties also suffered from visas and work permit being denied to Indians. Former President Nasheed speaking to WION had slammed Yameen's informal ban on Indians and said, "that will have a negative impact on the Maldives as most of the skilled force come from India". Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000. Of the country’s approximately 400 doctors, over 125 are Indians. Similarly, around 25 per cent of teachers in the Maldives are Indians Recently Dunya Maumoon, daughter of Abdul Gayoom who was the longest-serving president of Maldives and architect of democracy in the country visited New Delhi. She met India's external affairs minister during the visit. Speaking to WION during her Delhi visit, she lambasted Yameen and said, "While he brought some development, mostly a lot of people lived in fear and in an environment of a lot of political persecution. Using the court he was able to lock up and convict a lot of innocent people under various charges this included my father who at his age and given his health, it was a difficult time for him personally. My mother, my family. My brother, my brother in law were imprisoned. And many many other political figures with whom he was threatened were put in jail." China, Japan to send representatives Both China & Japan are also sending representatives. China will be sending President Xi Jinping's Special Envoy and Minister of Culture and Tourism Luo Shugang who is already in the country. Japan will be sending the member of the House of Representatives and President of the Japan-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship League, Wataru Takeshita. He is going to Male as Special Envoy of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

In PM Modi's presence at Solih's oath taking ceremony Delhi sends a message

India Thursday handed over to Maldivian Coast Guard one of its ships after carrying out major refit on it, the Indian Navy said.

"Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee successfully completed her refit at Naval Dockyard,&nbsp;Visakhapatnam, and the ship was formally handed over to the island nation,"&nbsp;a Navy spokesperson said&nbsp;

The handing over of the ship comes two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays a day-long visit to Maldives to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Modi's visit is seen as an indication of an attempt by New Delhi to mend bilateral ties, which nosedived during the outgoing Abdulla Yameen government.

India-Maldives ties came under strain under Yameen and the relations deteriorated further after he imposed emergency in the island nation on February 5 this year.&nbsp;

Maldives is an important country for India's maritime security and there have been concerns in India over China's growing influence over the country in the last few years.&nbsp;

The Navy spokesperson said the four-month long refit of Huravee was part of an initiative by the Indian Navy to enhance its outreach to friendly foreign navies in the Indian Ocean Region.

"The ship had arrived at Visakhapatnam on 12 Jul 18 and successfully completed her refit on Nov 14," the official said.&nbsp;

"Major repairs were undertaken on the ship's hull, main propulsion and auxiliaries. In addition number of systems and equipment were upgraded for better performance and reliability," he said.&nbsp;

India Thursday handed over to Maldivian Coast Guard one of its ships after carrying out major refit on it, the Indian Navy said. "Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee successfully completed her refit at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, and the ship was formally handed over to the island nation," a Navy spokesperson said The handing over of the ship comes two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays a day-long visit to Maldives to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

India Thursday handed over to Maldivian Coast Guard one of its ships after carrying out major refit on it, the Indian Navy said. "Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee successfully completed her refit at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, and the ship was formally handed over to the island nation," a Navy spokesperson said The handing over of the ship comes two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays a day-long visit to Maldives to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Modi's visit is seen as an indication of an attempt by New Delhi to mend bilateral ties, which nosedived during the outgoing Abdulla Yameen government. India-Maldives ties came under strain under Yameen and the relations deteriorated further after he imposed emergency in the island nation on February 5 this year. Maldives is an important country for India's maritime security and there have been concerns in India over China's growing influence over the country in the last few years. The Navy spokesperson said the four-month long refit of Huravee was part of an initiative by the Indian Navy to enhance its outreach to friendly foreign navies in the Indian Ocean Region. "The ship had arrived at Visakhapatnam on 12 Jul 18 and successfully completed her refit on Nov 14," the official said. "Major repairs were undertaken on the ship's hull, main propulsion and auxiliaries. In addition number of systems and equipment were upgraded for better performance and reliability," he said.

Indian navy refits Maldivian Coast Guard ship

Former Maldives foreign affairs minister Dunya Maumoon on Sunday extended the hand of friendship towards India and said that the trust should be regained between the two countries.

The statement from Maumoon, who is the daughter of former President of the Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom came after meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi.

Taking to Twitter, Maumoon said, "It was such a pleasure to call on my friend HE @SushmaSwaraj to pass on greetings from my father. HE @maumoonagayoom built a warm friendship between our countries while he was in office. We need to regain the trust between our countries."

India-Maldives relations have been strained recently after Male snubbed helicopters and work permit of India.

The rift between the two countries escalated after the Maldives inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pakistan to get help for developing its infrastructure in power sector in July.

The statement from Maumoon came after meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi.

Former Maldives foreign affairs minister Dunya Maumoon on Sunday extended the hand of friendship towards India and said that the trust should be regained between the two countries. The statement from Maumoon, who is the daughter of former President of the Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom came after meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi. Taking to Twitter, Maumoon said, "It was such a pleasure to call on my friend HE @SushmaSwaraj to pass on greetings from my father. HE @maumoonagayoom built a warm friendship between our countries while he was in office. We need to regain the trust between our countries." India-Maldives relations have been strained recently after Male snubbed helicopters and work permit of India. The rift between the two countries escalated after the Maldives inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pakistan to get help for developing its infrastructure in power sector in July.

Need to regain trust between India, Maldives: Ex-foreign minister Dunya Maumoon

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