Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has accepted Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi's invitation to attend his swearing-in ceremony and the Indian government's Council of Ministers on Sunday, as stated in a release from the Maldives presidential office.
"Munu Mahawar, Higher Commissioner of the Republic of India to the Republic of Maldives, presented the letter of invitation to the President during a courtesy call at the President's Office", the release noted.
Muizzu expressed his appreciation to Modi for the invitation, affirming his willingness to participate in the momentous occasion.
"He also stated that he looks forward to working with the Prime Minister to further strengthen the close relations with India, noting that Maldives-India relations are heading in the positive direction, as would be demonstrated by this visit", the official release stated.
Modi is poised for a third consecutive term, following the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the parliamentary elections.
Following Modi's victory for a third consecutive term, Muizzu extended his congratulations, expressing eagerness to collaborate and bolster bilateral relations.
"Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP and BJP-led NDA, on the success in the 2024 Indian General Election, for the third consecutive term. I look forward to working together to advance our shared interests in pursuit of shared prosperity and stability for our two countries", he shared in a post on X.
In response to the message, Modi thanked President Muizzu, emphasizing the significance of the Maldives as a valued partner and neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region. He expressed anticipation for closer cooperation to reinforce bilateral ties.
India-Maldives Row
President Muizzu's upcoming official visit to India will mark his first since assuming office on 17 November, 2023. Shortly after his inauguration, tensions arose as he demanded the removal of some 88 Indian military personnel from the Maldives. The personnel were replaced by Indian civilians by the 10 May deadline set by President Muizzu.