Misri, while addressing a special briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs on Prime Minister's visit to Maldives said that Network-to-Network Agreement between India's NPCI International Payment Limited (NIPL) and Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) on UPI in Maldives was signed.
As PM Modi arrived at the venue, he was greeted by enthusiastic crowds chanting "Narendra Modi Zindabad" and holding banners that read -- "Honouring Enduring Partnership - Welcome, Prime Minister Modi."
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, addressing a press briefing, said that this will be the first line of credit extended to the Maldives denominated in Indian rupees, replacing the earlier dollar-denominated credit.
Muizzu said, "I am also pleased to announce the initiation of negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and Maldives. This landmark initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening our economic partnership."
The Maldivian President's Office on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was escorted to the President's Office in a cultural procession accompanied by the MNDF Drum and Trumpet Band.
The two leaders met at Republic Square following the ceremonial welcome, which included a 21-gun salute, Guard of Honour by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), and a cultural dance performance by children. The national anthems of both countries were also played during the receptio
In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Landed in Male. Deeply touched by the gesture of President Muizzu to come to the airport to welcome me. I am confident that India-Maldives friendship will scale new heights of progress in the times to come."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Maldives on Friday as a part of his second leg of the two-nation visit. Upon his arrival, he received a welcome from President Muizzu and senior ministers from the government. He was greeted by a cultural performance and a warm welcome from the membe