Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has stated that the friendship between India and Maldives will continue to contribute to the development of the Indian Ocean region and a healthy planet.

PM Modi made the statement in reply to a tweet by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, regarding the 74th Independence Day of India.

In his tweet, President Solih sent "warmest felicitations to President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi and the people of India". He further added that "India remains a beacon of hope the world over for its democratic values and contributions to peace and progress".

"Thank you President [Solih] for the kind words and the wishes on our Independence Day. The friendship between India and Maldives will continue to contribute to the development of the Indian Ocean region and a healthy planet," PM Modi replied to the tweet.

Even though the ties between both countries were strained during the presidency of Abdulla Yameen, amends have been made and both countries remain, close friends since President Solih took office. Both have been on two trips to each country as well.

India celebrates its Independence Day on August 15th.