Maldives keen on trade and eco tie-ups with Maharashtra

Mumbai, May 15:

President Mohamed Waheed Hassan today evinced keen interest in forging

and economic relations with

.

The visiting dignitary, who is on a five-day tour of India, met Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan and Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan at Raj Bhavan this morning.

Waheed told the Governor that electricity is a major problem in Maldives and said power companies from India can help Maldives to tide over the energy deficiency.

Mentioning that Maharashtra's relationship with Maldives dates back to ancient times, he invited the Governor and the chief minister to bring a business and ministerial delegation to Maldives.

The two sides discussed ideas to enhance cooperation in tourism, health, education, business and trade.

The Governor told Waheed that India attaches the highest importance to its relations with Maldives, a close and friendly neighbouring country.

"Our time-tested multi-dimensional bilateral relationships can be further strengthened by such high level visits," he added.

PTI