PM Modi and President of Maldives jointly inaugurate development projects in Maldives

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on December 4, 2019, jointly inaugurated several key development projects in Maldives via video conference. They included gifting of Made in India Coast Guard Ship Kaamiyaab to Maldives, launch of RuPay card, lighting up of Male using LED lights, High Impact Community Development Projects, and launch of fish processing plants.

Congratulating President Solih on completing the first year of his Presidency, Prime Minister Modi said it was a significant year for the India – Maldives relationship.He said that India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Maldives’ India first Policy has strengthened the bilateral cooperation in all sectors.

Speaking about the Fast Interceptor Craft Coast Guard Ship Kaamiyaab, PM Modi said it would help in enhancing Maldives’ maritime security and promote blue economy and tourism. He also expressed happiness at partnering through High Impact Community Development Projects for supporting livelihood of the islands community.

Prime Minister Modi noted that People-to-People contact is one of the keys aspects of close relations between both the countries. In this context, he said India’s tourist figures in Maldives has more than doubled, 3 direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru have also started this week. He said launch of RuPay payment mechanism would further ease travel of Indians to Maldives, according to a PIB release.

The Prime Minister said the Government is working on building a cancer hospital and cricket stadium in Hulhulmale while work on the water and sanitation project in 34 islands will begin soon. He reiterated his commitment to continue partnering with Maldives for strengthening of democracy and development. The Prime Minister said both the countries would enhance cooperation for peace and security in Indian Ocean Region.