Managing Director of Maldives Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC), Abdul Matheen Mohamed, stated that recent high-level visits by leaders from neighboring countries demonstrate strong respect for the Maldives’ independence.

Speaking on the state-run media channel television programme Raajje Miyadhu, Matheen said the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations was a significant gesture of solidarity.

Prime Minister Modi arrived on July 28 to attend the official celebrations marking six decades of Maldivian independence.

Matheen described the visits as a great success, noting that both leaders showed clear respect for the country’s sovereignty and joined in the celebrations with the Maldivian people.

He also pointed to the productive outcomes of the visits, including multiple agreements signed with both India and Sri Lanka.

These included commitments in health, finance, and trade with India, as well as broader sectoral cooperation with Sri Lanka.

Matheen emphasized that in today’s interconnected world, no country can be entirely self-sufficient, and international partnerships are essential for mutual progress.

He underlined the importance of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s foreign policy, which he described as rooted in the principles of neighborliness, mutual respect and for the benefit of the people. 

Matheen noted that embracing such diplomatic standards would lead to long-term national benefits.

India and Sri Lanka’s participation in the independence celebrations also saw the signing of strategic agreements aimed at strengthening regional cooperation.

These agreements aim to support Maldivian development through regional partnerships that uphold the nation’s sovereignty.

Matheen concluded by reiterating that diplomacy grounded in respect and mutual interest is key to national progress.