India's Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday announced that various agreements will be signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Maldives in order to secure the bilateral relations between the two countries.
In a press conference held regarding PM Modi's visit, senior officials of the external affairs ministry stated that agreements regarding customs and shipping will be signed along with an agreement to provide civil servants with proper training.
Moreover, India will announce two development projects worth USD 26 million during this visit. This includes installing a coastal surveillance radar system and inaugurating a training centre for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
Opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) issued a statement calling for the government to disclose the details of any agreements signed during PM Modi's visit.
According to the statement, PPM remains skeptical as Velana International Airport (VIA) was "sold off" to India's GMR Group when Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) was formerly in power.
Apart from the official meetings with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, PM Modi will also meet with Vice President Faisal Naseem, Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Nasheed and other political leaders.
Additionally, PM Modi is scheduled to deliver a parliament address on Saturday evening.
The current government has established strong relations with India although bilateral ties between the two countries deteriorated during former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom's administration.
PM Modi first visited Maldives in 2018, for the inauguration ceremony of President Solih. India granted Maldives a USD 1.4 billion credit facility during President Solih's first state visit to the country.
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih shaking hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the President's first state visit. PHOTO: AHMED HAMDHOON/MIHAARU
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