In this episode of World Today, the focus is on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day state visit to the Maldives, the first hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu's government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India will continuously cooperate in developing defence capabilities of Maldives and peace, stability and prosperity in Indian Ocean is a common goal of the two countries.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday that Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has expressed his commitment to the security-related concerns and added that both sides have agreed to move forward together.

This comes after reports of a Chinese research vessel, suspected to be a surveillance ship, completing a 51-day deployment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the Arabian Sea in May this year. Misri also added that India continues to work very closely with the Maldives on any issues that might impinge on not just India’s security,

PM Modi and the Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu also addressed a joint press meet where PM Modi the growing security cooperation between the two nations reflects the depth of their trust.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly inaugurated Dhoshimeyna Building, the newly-built Ministry of Defence building in Malé, Maldives.

Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Republic Square in the Maldives capital Male. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu was also accompanied by the PM at the ceremony. The Prime Minister also received a 21-gun salute at the ceremonial welcome in the Maldives.