PM Modi and Maldives President Muizzu plant saplings in Malé as part of ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Ibrahim Muizzu reaffirmed their commitment to addressing climate change and environmental degradation by planting saplings together this evening in Malé.

The leaders supported the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree for Mother) initiative along with the Maldives Government’s Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation, aiming to enhance sustainability efforts.

“India and the Maldives fully understand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. And, we are committed to doing everything possible to boost sustainability. This evening in Malé, President Muizzu and I planted saplings, strengthening ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (a tree for Mother) initiative and Pledge of 5 million Tree Plantation of the Maldives Government,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

Modi landed in Male this morning to a warm welcome with Muizzu and a number of top ministers of his government receiving the prime minister at the Velena international airport, reflecting the importance Male attached to the trip.

Hours later, Modi was accorded a colourful ceremonial welcome and a guard of honour at the iconic Republic Square.

PM Modi also announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit to the island nation. He said that the two countries will work towards finalising a bilateral investment treaty and that negotiations for a free trade pact have already started.