New Delhi: Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu arrived in New Delhi today to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be taking the oath for a record third term at a grand ceremony scheduled for around 7.15 pm.

“President Mohamed Muizzu of Maldives arrives to a warm welcome in New Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers. He was received by Secretary (West) Pavan Kapoor at the airport. India and Maldives are maritime partners and close neighbours,” posted Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, on X (formerly Twitter).

In an earlier statement, President Muizzu congratulated PM Modi on securing a third term following the BJP’s impressive performance in the Lok Sabha elections. “Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP and BJP-led NDA, on the success in the 2024 Indian General Election, for the third consecutive term. I look forward to working together to advance our shared interests in pursuit of shared prosperity and stability for our two countries,” he posted on X.

This visit marks President Muizzu’s first official trip to India since assuming office on November 17 last year.

Relations between India and Maldives have been strained since Muizzu took office. During his election campaign, he frequently criticized India and called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. Following his inauguration, all Indian armed forces left the Maldives and have been replaced by civilians.

This is President Muizzu’s inaugural official visit to India. Unlike his predecessors, who prioritized New Delhi, Muizzu first traveled to Turkey and then made his first state visit to China in January.