Maldives Fortunate to Have Close Relations with India: VP

Vice President Faisal Naseem has stated that in addition to being a neighboring country, Maldives is fortunate to have a close relationship with India.

VP Faisal Naseem officiated the celebration of India's 75th Independence Day arranged by the High Commission of India in the Maldives at Hotel Jen. The event displayed a video projection regarding the relationship between India and Maldives, as well as the road development and freshwater projects. The Indian Culture Center performed an item at the event.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice President congratulated the Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of the Maldives.

In his speech, he highlighted the extensive efforts to liberate India 75 years ago. He noted that Mahatma Gandhi greatly contributed to the independence of India, won the hearts of many, taught valuable lessons, and is one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century.

According to the VP, Maldives is lucky to have a close relationship with India as after its independence, the country has advanced in numerous fields and is now one of the greatest global powers.

India and Maldives have long been friends before the establishment of political relations, said Faisal. He noted that India was among the first to acknowledge Maldives' independence from the British. Acknowledging that the relationship between the countries has been growing closer, reaching new heights in the past three years, VP Faisal stated that both nations' leaders have been meeting more frequently, and further connections have been established in various fields.

VP Faisal said that India is an important part of development, and has always been the first to respond to the Maldives' every request. He mentioned India's aid in conducting development projects such as the High Impact Community Development Project, the decentralized development projects across the Maldives, and the improvement of the standard of living in the Maldives.

The Vice President hopes to strengthen the relationship between India and Maldives further, as the connection runs deeper than official relations.