Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, on his first bilateral visit to India, reassured that his country's 'Maldives First' policy will not impinge on its longstanding relationship with India, particularly in terms of security interests.

"We are confident that our engagements with other nations will not undermine India’s security interests.

Muizzu said the Maldives will continue to pursue strong and strategic relations with India as it is a "valued partner and friend" and their relationship is "built on mutual respect and shared interests."

He reiterated that the Maldives will continue to work together with India to ensure regional stability and security, even as New Delhi looks askance at Malé's deepening ties with Beijing.

"The relations between the Maldives and India have always been strong, and I am confident this visit will further strengthen it," he said.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) echoed this sentiment, noting that Muizzu's visit, which began on Sunday, would provide a significant boost to the "long-standing India-Maldives comprehensive bilateral partnership."

This marks Muizzu's first bilateral visit to India, though he had previously attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony in June.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Muizzu on Sunday and expressed optimism about the talks. "We are confident that Muizzu’s discussions with Prime Minister Modi will lend a new impetus to our friendly ties," Jaishankar said.

During the five-day visit, President Muizzu is expected to hold discussions with PM Modi on a range of bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest, according to the MEA.

Source: India Today