Male: Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is visiting Maldives, on Thursday inaugurated the Community Centre in Shaviyani Foakaidhoo.

Speaking at the inauguration of the India-funded centre, he said: "This Community Centre is an excellent example of the quality social infrastructure that is being created across Maldives under the India-Maldives development partnership. I applaud the Council and the people of Foakaidhoo for the successful completion of this project."

He said: "India is supporting through grant assistance, 45 such projects spread across 16 atolls and 36 islands. 23 of these projects have already been completed. A new project, for the development of a sports complex in Gaaf Dhaalu Gaddhoo was added yesterday."

He further said: "I am also delighted to share that India will be extending a further MVR 100 million to take on additional community welfare projects just like this, in other parts of the Maldives."

He said the two countries share very special; relationship.

"We in India see ourselves as a good neighbor, special neighbor, a trusted neighbor. And the proof of our goodwill and our concern and our affection for the people of Maldives is exactly in projects like this, project which makes difference to the daily lives of small communities across this island. I know today, from this inauguration, our partnership will emerge stronger than before," he said.