New Delhi/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday stressed on India's ties with Maldives stating New Delhi has always been the "first responder" for Male.

Modi made the remark after a bilateral meeting with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who is on a trip to India.

The Indian Prime Minister said, "Relations between India and Maldives are centuries old. And India is the closest neighbour and close friend of Maldives. Maldives also has an important place in our 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision."

"India has always played the role of First Responder for Maldives. Be it fulfilling the need of essential commodities for the people of Maldives, making drinking water available during natural calamities, or providing vaccines during Covid, India has always fulfilled its responsibility as a neighbour," he added.

Modi also highlighted the works India and Maldives have accomplished in the past and revealed the plan for future.

"Today, we have inaugurated the redeveloped Hanimaadhu Airport. Now, the Greater Male Connectivity Project will also be expedited. Support will also be provided for the development of a new commercial port in Thilafushi. Today, more than 700 social housing units built with Indian assistance have been handed over," he added.

Photo courtesy: PIB

Muizzu was accorded a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday.

Posting on X, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X: "A landmark State visit begins with a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour to President @MMuizzu of Maldives at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan."

Muizzu also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

Muizzu on Sunday met Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi, just a day before he is scheduled to meet PM Narendra Modi.

Muizzu, who is currently on a four-day tour to India, met Jaishankar just hours after he arrived in the country.