'India a key partner in social development'

Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services, Shidatha Shareef have stated that India is a key partner in the social development of the Maldives.

Speaking at the round-table discussions organized by Vivekananda International Foundation in India, Shidhatha said on Tuesday that the age old friendship between India and Maldives was developed due to the similar culture and traditions shared by both countries.

The Maldives benefits greatly from the bilateral relations with India in several sectors, said Shidhatha, and noted the contributions of India in social development and women empowerment. She also spoke about the challenges faced by women and children in the archipelago, and discussed measures that can be taken to address these issues.