India on Monday welcomed the result of the Maldives’ Presidential election and “heartily” congratulated the winning candidate Mohamed Solih. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the President-elect and expressed support for better ties between the two sides.

“Prime Minister also conveyed his good wishes for the strengthening of democracy, peace and prosperity in Maldives under the leadership of Mr. Solih. The two leaders agreed to work closely together to further strengthen the close, friendly and good neighbourly relations between the two countries,” a press release from the Ministry of External Affairs stated.

Earlier, in a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said the election process amounted to triumph of democracy in the country where public election was established a decade ago. “The election marks not only the triumph of democratic forces in the Maldives, but also reflects the firm commitment to the values of democracy and the rule of law. In keeping with our ‘Neighbourhood First Policy,’ India looks forward to working closely with the Maldives in further deepening our partnership,” said the MEA.

There were concerns in India and across the world about transparency of the election process in the Maldives in view of the prevailing crackdown upon human rights workers and political opponents in the country.

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