Opposition MDP President Abdulla Shahid has said the current government recognizes India as a sincere and true friend of the Maldives.
Shahid made the statement in relation to the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives. This year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the Maldives at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Shahid said the gesture reflects the government's trust in India's friendship and commitment to regional cooperation.
Speaking to Indian media, Shahid noted that India maintains strong ties with its neighbours and that the Maldivian government acknowledges these ties as genuine. He expressed hope that Modi’s visit would strengthen bilateral relations and mark a new beginning.
Shahid highlighted the potential benefits of India’s growing economy for the Maldives and noted with regret the recent decline in Indian tourist arrivals, citing weakened diplomatic ties. However, he expressed confidence that the visit would restore confidence and cooperation.
He called on political leaders to avoid using international relations for short-term political gains, stressing that lasting friendships require mutual respect and consistency.
Shahid also said India’s support for Maldivian development has never depended on party politics, but on longstanding people-to-people ties. He noted that several Indian-assisted projects initiated under the MDP government will be completed and inaugurated during Modi’s visit.
He added that with India being the world’s fifth-largest economy, the Maldives must seize opportunities to strengthen economic and strategic cooperation.
Shahid made the statement in relation to the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives. This year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the Maldives at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Shahid said the gesture reflects the government's trust in India's friendship and commitment to regional cooperation.
Speaking to Indian media, Shahid noted that India maintains strong ties with its neighbours and that the Maldivian government acknowledges these ties as genuine. He expressed hope that Modi’s visit would strengthen bilateral relations and mark a new beginning.
Shahid highlighted the potential benefits of India’s growing economy for the Maldives and noted with regret the recent decline in Indian tourist arrivals, citing weakened diplomatic ties. However, he expressed confidence that the visit would restore confidence and cooperation.
He called on political leaders to avoid using international relations for short-term political gains, stressing that lasting friendships require mutual respect and consistency.
Shahid also said India’s support for Maldivian development has never depended on party politics, but on longstanding people-to-people ties. He noted that several Indian-assisted projects initiated under the MDP government will be completed and inaugurated during Modi’s visit.
He added that with India being the world’s fifth-largest economy, the Maldives must seize opportunities to strengthen economic and strategic cooperation.
