Muizzu changed his stance, India also extended the hand of friendship, made many important agreements and filled the lap of Maldives | News India

New Delhi: The attitude of Maldives President Mohammed Muizzu has completely changed. Now Muizu is seen singing the praises of India and calling India his special friend. Seeing Muizu's changed attitude, India has also extended its hand of friendship. Both the countries have signed several important agreements to strengthen bilateral relations.

Rupay card launch

India and Maldives today signed a $400 million currency swap agreement, a move that will help the island nation overcome its foreign exchange reserves crisis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Mohammed Muizzu inaugurated the new runway at Honeymadhu International Airport and launched RuPay card in Maldives.

Muizu, who is on a four-day state visit, spoke to Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House.

Greater Mail Connectivity project will gain momentum

India also handed over 700 social housing units constructed under EXIM Bank Buyers Credit facilities to Maldives. PM Modi said that many agreements have been signed today and now the Greater Mail Connectivity Project will also be given impetus. We will also support the development of a new commercial port at Thilafushi.

Free trade agreement was also discussed

Modi said India and Maldives have decided to initiate discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to further strengthen economic ties. The Prime Minister described Maldives as a 'close friend' which has an important place in India's neighborhood policy and maritime outlook.

PM Modi said that India has always fulfilled the responsibility of its neighbour. Today we have adopted the vision of a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership to give strategic direction to our mutual cooperation.

Relations with Maldives were tense

Let us tell you that tension between India and Maldives had increased last year. Muizu, known to be pro-China, had won the presidential election last year under the 'India Out' campaign and had asked India to withdraw its military personnel deployed in the country by May this year.

When Maldivian ministers made many controversial statements regarding PM Modi, bilateral relations also turned sour. However, Muizzu has softened his anti-India stance and dismissed those ministers.