Male, July 25 -- India and Maldives on Friday announced the initiation of negotiations for the launch of a Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA).

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, on Friday, announced the beginning of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries during a joint press conference in Male with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Muizzu said, "I am also pleased to announce the initiation of negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and the Maldives. This landmark initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening our economic partnership."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, focusing on consolidating cooperation in areas of trade, ...