Briefing media in New Delhi, High Commissioner of India to Maldives, Munu Mahawar said many flagship projects were inaugurated and reviewed after the leaders’ meeting.

He said the leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral ties and focused on next steps that can be taken to keep enhancing the ties.

Six agreements were exchanged following the delegation level talks today in areas including cyber security, disaster management, and infrastructure. The India Maldives development cooperation including Addu roads and reclamation, water and sanitation in 34 islands and Friday Mosque restoration projects was reviewed.

Mr Mahawar said the visit has a strong business focus and therefore two business events have been planned, one in Delhi later in the evening and one in Mumbai. He said India-Maldives relationship has grown tremendously in the last three and a half to four years. He added that cooperation during pandemic was phenomenal and it is a model for the entire region.

He said Mr Solih will be the first Head of State or Government to meet President Droupadi Murmu.

The High Commissioner said that development cooperation has evolved as a central pillar and large and mid level projects are being executed which are benefiting the people of Male. Trade has grown tremendously by 31% despite COVID.