New Maldives president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih departed to India on Sunday on a three day state visit, during which he would hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral ties.
The veteran lawmaker Solih, who surprised strongman Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom in September's presidential elections is scheduled to arrive in India on Sunday afternoon and hold talks with Modi on Monday after a ceremonial reception. Solih would also meet with Indian president Ram Nath Kovind on the same day.
Speaking to reporters before departure, Solih pointed out that both countries were set to sign agreements during his visit which included a visa agreement to ease difficulties faced by Maldivians travelling to the neighbouring country to seek health care and education.
Solih's visit comes about a month after Modi attended his swearing-in ceremony.
The visit is Modi's first to the Maldives after years of tense relations between the two countries because of Solih's predecessor's embrace of China during his tenure.
