India-Maldives talks begin

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Maldivian counterpart Abdulla Shahid on Friday and held extensive talks to induct further momentum in bilateral ties between the two countries. The two ministers held a one-on-one talk followed by a joint commission meeting.

READ: Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid Lauds India For Having 'a Bigger Heart'

S Jaishankar meets Maldivian counterpart Abdulla Shahid

"Pleased to welcome FM Abdulla Shahid. Look forward to the Joint Commission Meeting with him later today," tweeted Jaishankar.

READ: Foreign Min Abdullah Shahid: CAB Is India's Internal Matter, Not For Maldives To Comment

A vast range of issues will be discussed at the 6th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) which is taking place after a gap of over four years. Shahid arrived in India late Tuesday night on a four-day visit. He is leading a 31-member delegation which comprised senior officials of all major ministries and departments of the Maldivian government.

Watch: Video Played At Launch Of Projects By India And Maldives

India-Maldives ties

Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said as a close friend and maritime neighbour, India is committed to partnering with the Maldives for its development. Modi paid a two-day visit to the Maldives in June, his first bilateral trip after his re-election for a second term. He also visited the Maldives last November to attend President Solih's swearing-in ceremony.

Watch: PM Modi And Maldives President Jointly Launch Key Projects