India-Maldives talks begin

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Maldivian counterpart Abdulla Shahid on Friday and held extensive talks to induct further momentum in bilateral ties between the two countries. The two ministers held a one-on-one talk followed by a joint commission meeting.

"Pleased to welcome FM @abdulla_shahid. Look forward to the Joint Commission Meeting with him later today. Confident that #IndiaMaldives cooperation will reach newer heights," tweeted Jaishankar. A vast range of issues will be discussed at the 6th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) which is taking place after a gap of over four years.

Shahid arrived here late Tuesday night on a four-day visit. He is leading a 31-member delegation which comprised senior officials of all major ministries and departments of the Maldivian government.

Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said as a close friend and maritime neighbour, India is committed to partnering with the Maldives for its development. Modi paid a two-day visit to the Maldives in June, his first bilateral trip after his reelection for a second term.

He also visited the Maldives last November to attend President Solih's swearing-in ceremony.