Indian Prime Minister Modi arrives in Maldives

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has arrived in Maldives this morning on an official visit.

Prime Minister Modi travelled to Maldives directly from the UK after concluding a visit there.

The Prime Minister was given a red carpet welcome at the Velana International Airport. He was received by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

This is the first visit of a foreign leader after President Muizzu assumed office on November 17, 2023.

Velana Airport was decked out to welcome Prime Minister Modi, with photos of him and President Muizzu on display. In Male', the Republic Square area is similarly decorated, with flags of India and Maldives and a festive gate.

The official welcoming ceremony for Prime Minister Modi will be held this afternoon. This will be followed by a meeting at the President's Office, where the two leaders will engage in official talks and sign Memoranda of Understanding in various areas.

Prime Minister Modi will attend tomorrow's Maldives' 6oth Independence Day festivities as Guest of Honour. During the visit, the new Defence Ministry building constructed through a free grant from India will also be inaugurated.

Last year, President Muizzu visited India to attend the oath taking ceremony when Prime Minister Modi was elected for a third term in office.