Maldives President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih on Sunday said that his country was open for conducting business activities with India, and there are no obstacles to foreign ownership of investments in the island nation.
Solih, who is currently on his maiden three-day visit to India, addressing the India-Maldives Business Forum here, said: “In Maldives, there are no obstacles to foreign ownership of investments”.
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“We are fully committed to providing protection and legal cover that the overseas investors need to develop their businesses in the Maldives. We have stable investment climate and Maldives is open for doing business activities”, he added.
Underlining the need for ‘close ties’ between the two nations, Solih said: “India is our closest neighbour. The people of the two countries are bound by ties of friendship and cultural affinity. India is not only our closest friend, but it is also one of our largest trading partners. Within those close links, trade and commerce have flourished”.
Lauding the rapid economic growth of India, the Maldivian President states that his nation is a fast growing one as well.
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“We continue to develop our tourism industry and are making new investments in infrastructure developments, ranging from harbour construction to regional airports. We have near perfect capital mobility ”, he said.
Expressing gratitude to New Delhi, Solih said that his nation was grateful that India hosts thousands of Maldivian students who cherish the opportunity to attend well- known educational institutions and learn from some of the world’s best doctors, engineers and technologists.
Solih arrived in India on Sunday after assuming the office of President on November 17. Solih will be accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on December 17. he will the take part in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Raj Ghat, followed by a meeting with the EAM Suhma Swaraj at the Rashtrapati Bhavan before holding delegation-level talks with PM Modi at the Hyderabad House.
(With ANI inputs)