Indian High Commission in Male’ hosts special event to mark India’s 62nd Republic Day

Indian High Commission in Male’ has hosted a special event to mark the 62^nd Republic Day of India. The event, which also launched Maldives-India Friendship Association (MIFA) was also attended by President Mohamed Nasheed, First Lady Madam Laila Ali, and Vice-President and Spouse, ministers, senior officials of the Government, residing diplomats in Male, High Commissioner and staff of Indian High Commission and Indian citizens residing in Male.

Speaking at the event High Commissioner Mullay said that Maldives has always been and will always be India’s “best friend”, and that the democratic transition of Maldives in 2008 only strengthened that friendship.

High Commissioner also stated that road of democracy will not always be challenging, but those challenges can always be met. High Commissioner also noted that Maldives has not been exempted from the difficult road, and hence current political events in the Maldives.  He also noted that before the Arab Spring of 2011, Maldives has undergone a largely peaceful democratic transition, which he believes can be a very good example globally.

Nevertheless, High Commissioner also expressed his hope that political parties and politicians in the Maldives would work together to resolve the current political crisis in the country.

High Commissioner also touched upon the cultural cooperation between India and Maldives and announced that at least 130 Maldivian students are studying in India in 2012. He also urged more people to visit Indian Culture Center in the Maldives.

High Commissioner also assured that he will provide all the assistance he can, both in is official and personal capacity to garner more assistance from Indian central government to the Maldives and Maldivians