Your Excellency Shri Narendra Modi,
Prime Minister of the Republic of India,
Distinguished members of the Indian delegation,
Ministers,
Esteemed guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Assalaamu Alaikum and a very good evening.
It is a profound pleasure to welcome Your Excellency and the distinguished members of the Indian delegation to the Maldives.
My wife and I still carry fond memories of the warmth and generosity with which you received us during our visit to India last October. Tonight, we are delighted to reciprocate that friendship and goodwill, in the spirit of the close ties between our two nations.
Excellency,
First of all, let convey my heartiest congratulations to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on becoming the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India, today.
This remarkable milestone—4,078 consecutive days in office—is a testament to your unwavering commitment to public service, visionary leadership, and dedication to the progress and prosperity of the Indian people.
Wishing you continued success as you lead India towards greater heights.
This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India — a milestone that reflects not only our shared history, but also the depth and resilience of our partnership.
Yet, the bond between our peoples predates diplomatic formalities. For centuries, the Indian Ocean has been a witness to our shared journey — as traders, travelers, and neighbours, we exchanged goods, stories, and ideas across these waters, for centuries.
It is the same ocean that unites us today — with ties that no tide can break.
Excellency,
India has long stood as the Maldives’ closest and most trusted partner. Our collaboration spans a wide range of areas — from security and trade to healthcare, education, and beyond — touching the everyday lives of our citizens.
Every day, hundreds of Maldivians travel to India for medical care, education, and business — just as we warmly welcome members of the Indian diaspora who continue to contribute meaningfully to our economy and society.
My government’s vision is clear: to build a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking economy that is vibrant; to empower our youth to thrive in the digital age; and to ensure lasting peace and security in our shared region.
In pursuing these goals, India’s partnership remains invaluable.
This evening, I reaffirm the Maldives’ steadfast commitment to preserve and strengthen the special bond between our two nations and our peoples.
Excellency,
The Government and people of the Maldives deeply value the friendship of India and are sincerely grateful for the timely assistance your country has extended to us in moments of need.
As neighbours and partners, let us continue to explore new avenues of cooperation that promote prosperity, uphold shared values, and fulfil the aspirations of our people.
On behalf of the Government and the people of the Maldives, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to you and your Government for your enduring friendship and reliable support.
May the Maldives–India partnership continue to flourish in the years ahead.
And may the people of India be blessed with continued peace, happiness, and prosperity.
Thank you.