Six-member Maldivian delegation calls on PM

A six-member Maldivian delegation, led by Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, Leader of the Parliamentary Group of the Progress Party of Maldives, and also the presidential candidate of Progress Party, met the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, here on Friday.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) sources said that the meeting was held in the context of ongoing Indian engagement with all Maldivian stake holders.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Singh mentioned that India was engaged with various Maldivian political parties.

He hoped for free and fair elections in September and expressed the desire that there will be a smooth transition.

He also emphasized on the need to ensure understanding among all that outcome of the elections is recognized by all and there are no reprisals.

Mr. Gayoom agreed and expressed his thanks for the traditional Indian support for Maldives and expressed the desire that these unique bonds should continue to grow and prosper.

He invited Indian investment to contribute to Maldives' growth and said that he would contribute in creating a conducive atmosphere.

He also thanked the Prime Minister that India was always there when Maldives needed.

Dunya Maumoon, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Ahmed Adheeb Abdul Gafoor, Vice President of PPM, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture; Moosa Zameer, Member of Parliament, Council Member, Campaign Manager; Abdulla Maseeh, Member of Parliament, Council Member; Ahmed Faris Maumoon, Council Member; and Mohamed Ghassaan Maumoon, Minister of State for Human Resource, Youth and Sports, Council Member, were the other members of the Maldivian delegation that called on the Prime Minister.