Cricket diplomacy, inauguration of defence projects among key agendas of PM Narendra Modi's maiden Maldives visit in second term. Read here

PM Narendra Modi began his maiden visit to Maldives on Saturday following his swearing-in as Prime Minister for a second consecutive term. PM Modi’s visit is in tune with 'India first policy' of Male and 'Neighbourhood First' policy of New Delhi. 

Prime Minister will meet Maldives President Ibrahim Solih and two leers are expected to sign several agreements related to customs cooperation, capacity building, defence and connectivity issues.

PM Modi has emphasised on cricket diplomacy with Maldives in order to consolidate people-to-people relations. He will focus on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop sport in Maldives

With an aim to enhance connectivity, India is planning to start a ferry service from Kochi to Maldives

Both PM Modi and Maldivian President will jointly inaugurate two defence related projects – a coastal surveillance rar system and composite training centre for Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF), strengning defence ties.

MASSIVE: Maldives To Accord PM Modi 'Order Of Nishan Izzuddeen' - Its Highest Hour For A Foreign Dignitary

On day of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Maldives, President Solih has anunced to confer highest hour which is accorded to foreign dignitaries to PM Modi during his visit.

Taking to Twitter on Saturday, Minister of Foreign Affairs for Maldives Abdulla Shahid stated that " Most Hourable Order of Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen" will be accorded to PM Modi during his visit to Island nation.

PM Modi, following his swearing-in, without wasting a moment, decided to travel to Maldives as his first official foreign visit after forming government for second time.

On night of swearing-in ceremony on May 30, he held his first bilateral talks with President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbay Jeenbekov.

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