Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat next to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe at a dinner banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday. This gesture underscores the "Neighbours First" and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies as focal points of Modi 3.0, signaling efforts to resolve any differences with neighboring countries.
Leaders from neighboring nations, who attended PM Modi's swearing-in ceremony, were present at the Rashtrapati Bhavan banquet. Muizzu sat to PM Modi's left, while Wickremesinghe was on his right, followed by Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.
The seating arrangement and interactions reaffirm India's commitment to strengthening ties with its neighbors. The presence of Maldivian President Muizzu, who came to power with the "India Out" campaign, highlights India's intent to mend and enhance bilateral relations, despite previous tensions during PM Modi's last term.
Maldivian President Muizzu shared photos of his meeting with PM Modi on Instagram, indicating positive diplomatic engagement.
The banquet honored leaders from neighboring countries, including Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe; Maldivian President Muizzu; Seychelles Vice President Ahmed Afif; Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina; Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth; Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda; and Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
This event signifies India's strategic emphasis on regional cooperation and harmony, aiming to bolster diplomatic relations and address regional challenges collaboratively under Modi's third term.
