Modi said India and Maldives have decided to initiate discussion on the Free Trade Agreement to further strengthen economic ties.The prime minister described Maldives as a “close friend” who had an important position in India’s neighbourhood policy and SAGAR vision.”India has always fulfilled the responsibilities of a neighbour.Today, we have taken up the vision of a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership to give our mutual cooperation a strategic direction,” Modi said Earlier, Muizzu was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhawan by President Droupadi Murmu.Prime Minister Modi was also present on the occasion.Muizzu was given a tri-services guard of honour before he drove down the Rajghat to offer his respects at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.The ties between India and the Maldives came under severe strain since Muizzu, known for his pro-China leanings, took charge of the top office in November.
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