Bangalore, October 10: Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Maldives, and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed paid a courtesy visit to Raj Bhavan, where they were warmly received by the Governor of Karnataka Thaawarchand Gehlot. The visit was graced by the presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Minister M.C. Sudhakar, who joined in extending Karnataka’s hospitality to the distinguished guests.
In welcoming the President and First Lady, Governor Gehlot highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between India and the Maldives, noting the President’s recent meetings with key Indian leaders, including the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister. “These engagements have further solidified the cordial relations between our two nations,” he said.
The Governor emphasized the Maldives’ significant role in India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiatives. He praised the currency swap agreement as a testament to the strong economic cooperation between the two countries and celebrated recent developments such as the launch of the RuPay card in the Maldives, expanded air connectivity, and enhanced visa facilities.
“We are optimistic about the opening of an Indian consulate in Addu City, Maldives, and a Maldivian consulate in Bangalore. These initiatives will promote closer ties, especially in tourism,” the Governor stated. He further expressed enthusiasm about the President’s business delegation, noting that Bangalore, as India’s IT hub, could play a key role in deepening economic and commercial ties with the Maldives.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah echoed the Governor’s sentiments, expressing pride in hosting the Maldivian delegation. He remarked on the historical ties between Bangalore and the Maldives, noting that First Lady Sajidha Mohamed had studied in Bengaluru. The Chief Minister highlighted Karnataka’s role as a global center for IT, innovation, and startups, offering partnership opportunities with the Maldives in these areas.
“We look forward to strengthening our trade ties, particularly in promoting Karnataka’s handloom and handicraft industries to the Maldivian tourism market,” Siddaramaiah added. He also underscored the state’s rich cultural and natural diversity, inviting collaboration in educational and cultural exchanges.
In response, President Muizzu thanked the Indian government and Karnataka for their warm hospitality, expressing his desire to enhance cooperation, particularly in education and tourism. He acknowledged the large number of Maldivian students in Karnataka and emphasized the importance of mutual development efforts in both nations.
Dignitaries in attendance included Minister M.C. Sudhakar, Chief Secretary to the Government Shalini Rajneesh, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s Political Secretary Govindaraju.
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