President Takes Part In Official Reception To Mark 74th Republic Day of India

On Tuesday, the official reception to commemorate the 74^th Republic Day of India in the Maldives was held at Dharubaaruge. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih attended the function together with Ministers of the Maldivian cabinet, state dignitaries, the Speaker of the People’s Majilis and members and the High Commissioner of the Republic of India to the Republic of Maldives, H.E. Munu Mahawar.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President conveyed his warm wishes and felicitations of the momentous occasion to the President of India, H.E. Droupadi Murmu, the Prime Minister, H.E. Narendra Modi and the people of India on behalf of the Maldivian people. Recalling the longstanding friendship between the two countries, the President acknowledged India’s crucial contributions to the Maldives as a developmental partner.

President Solih emphasized in particular, the assistance provided by the country during the Covid-19 response and signified it as a testimony of the special relationship between both sides. Moreover, the President expressed confidence that existing relations between the two states will increase this year through avenues of enhanced cooperation.

During his address, the President also noted that Maldives and India share a unique partnership founded on mutual trust and respect which has seen revived impetus during his administration. He also described the neighbouring country as one of the most trusted and valued friends of the Maldives during harsh times.

Highlighting India’s adherence to constitutionalism, President Solih said that it serves as a luminous example for young democracies like the Maldives and commended the resilience, commitment and steadfastness India has demonstrated in its progress towards development and stability over the years. He remarked that the Constitution of India which promotes sovereignty and rights is crucial to its success story.

Before concluding his speech, the President spotlighted the ethos of inclusiveness and equitable development in India. He added that its policies of leadership have proven an example to the world that unity can be achieved through diversity and that a nation can still function as a harmonious society while not compromising its development imperatives.

India was among the first to recognize Maldives after its independence in 1965 and to establish diplomatic relations with the country. During the reception, an honoury cake was cut to mark the occasion and different cultural events took place at the function.