India, July 26 -- Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday called India his country's closest and most trusted ally, a sharp turn after the earlier 'India Out' campaign.

Muizzu met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Presidential office in Male during the Indian leader's two-day state visit to the Maldives.

Muizzu expressed his appreciation for India's commitment to being the first responder in any crisis that Male faces.

"India has long stood as the Maldives's closest and most trusted partner. Our collaboration spans a wide range of areas, from security and trade to healthcare, education and beyond, touching the everyday lives of our citizens," Muizzu said.

Apart from appreciating India for its response to the Maldives' crisis, Pr...