India has always responded to Maldives' every distress call, foreign minister Dr Mohamed Asim said Thursday insisting that the regional giants has stood by the archipelago "through thick and thin."
Speaking at the reception held in capital Male to mark the 68th Republic Day of India, Maldives' top diplomat stressed on president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom's 'India First' policy, reflecting the importance the Maldives attaches to its "closest neighbor, partner and faithful friend."
"The three official visits that President Yameen has made to India since 2014 is one of many examples of the commitment of the Maldives to solidify its relations with India," Asim added.
Highlighting India's generosity to the Maldives over the years, the minister pointed out the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital, the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies and the ‘Senahiya Hospital’ as "visible symbols of friendship" between the two south Asian countries.
"We can always rely on India for a speedy response for our every call of distress. India has stood by the Maldives through thick and thin," he said.
Minister Asim also noted the significant contribution of Indian nationals, to the economic and social development of the Maldives.
"I remain confident that this year will open more avenues and opportunities for the mutual benefit of our two peoples."
