Maldives to confer highest civilian award to PM Modi today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said his visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka from Saturday reflects the importance India attaches to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy and that it will further cement ties with the two maritime nations. Modi will first travel to the Maldives, in his first bilateral visit after retaining power in the Lok Sabha polls. From Maldives, he will go to Sri Lanka on Sunday. "I am confident that my visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will further strengthen our close and cordial ties with our maritime neighbours, in line with our 'Neighbourhood-First Policy' and the vision of security and growth for all in the region," the prime minister said.
It is learnt that the Maldives will honour Modi with the Order of Nishanizzuddeen, a prestigious award.