Sushma Swaraj meets Maldivian counterpart

New Delhi, Feb 15: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Maldivian counterpart Dunya Maumoon held talks here Sunday to boost bilateral relations that are set to mark 50 years in November.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin tweeted: "Ocean diplomacy. Maritime neighbours India-Maldives to strengthen ties as they commemorate 50 years of relations."

Sushma Swaraj made a stopover at Male en route to Mauritius in November but has not paid a visit so far.

In December, India extended help when the Maldivian capital was faced with an acute water crisis following a fire in the city's water treatment plant.

India sent an Indian Air Force transport aircraft and naval vessels carrying water to meet the requirement.

Both countries are set to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties in November this year.

Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the Maldives.

IANS