The relationship between Maldives and neighboring India has been remarkable over the past four years, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The Maldivian leader made this remark during a courtesy call paid on him by Minister of Defence of the Republic of India Rajnath Singh on Tuesday morning.

During the meeting held at the President’s Office, the Maldivian president spoke fondly of the long history of close cooperation between Maldives and India, adding that the relationship between the two countries has been “remarkable” during his tenure, with several high-level visits conducted as well as improved people-to-people contact.

Speaking at the meeting, Minister Singh expressed confidence that the partnership between Maldives and India would continue in defence cooperation.

He noted that the commissioning of the Coast Guard Ship ‘Huravee’ and the Landing Craft gifted during the Defence Minister’s visit would enhance the Maldives’ capabilities in maritime security.

Applauding the significant progress achieved in the hydrography surveys being conducted with assistance from India, President Solih expressed gratitude to the Indian government for providing the equipment to undertake the study.

The Indian Defence Minister stated that three rounds of surveys were conducted to support the blue economy initiative of the government of Maldives and added that the charts compiled from the surveys have since been shared with the Maldivian government.

The Indian Defence Minister went on to assure India’s assistance in the regular update of the charts.

The meeting also saw President Solih expressing gratitude to the government of India for the continued support and aid extended to the Maldives in several sectors.

He stressed that this mirrored India’s special regard for the Maldives and reiterated the commitment of his government for further solidifying the ties.

Minister Singh also spoke regarding the progress of several development initiative undertaken by the government of India in the Maldives.

Before concluding the meeting, the Indian Defence Minister assured the Maldivian president of India’s continued assistance and support.