India proud to be Maldives’ most trusted friend: PM Modi

India's Neighbourhood First policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that New Delhi takes immense pride in being Male's "most trusted friend" and has stood with Maldives as first responder in times of need.

Making a statement to the press along with the Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, PM Modi congratulated the people of Indian Ocean country on the 60th anniversary of its independence and thanked Muizzu for inviting him as the 'Guest of Honour' on this historic occasion.

This year, India and Maldives are also celebrating 60 years of their diplomatic relations. But, the roots of our relations are older than history and as deep as the sea. The commemorative stamps released today display traditional boats of both nations. This reflects that we are not just neighbours but also co-passengers," said PM Modi.

India is the closest neighbour of Maldives. The Maldives holds an important place in India's Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR vision. India is proud to be most trusted friend of Maldives. Be it a natural disaster or pandemic, India has always stood with them as first responders. Be it making essential commodities available or handling the economy after Covid, India has always worked together. For us, it is always friendship first," he added.India proud to be Maldives’ most trusted friend: PM Modi

PM Modi emphasised that the increasing cooperation between two nations in the defence and security sector is symbol of "mutual trust." He also spoke about the Defence Ministry Building that is set to be inaugurated and was graced by a giant portrait of PM Modi, on Friday.