India moves early to welcome victory of Maldives opposition in Presidential polls

India on Monday morning welcomed Presidential election results in strategically located Maldives where according to initial results Opposition candidate Ibu Solih secured victory over incumbent Md Yameen whose regime has been marked by authoritarianism.

"We welcome the successful completion of the third Presidential election process in the Maldives which, according to preliminary information, Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has won. We heartily congratulate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on his victory and hope that the Election Commission will officially confirm the result at the earliest," MEA said in a statement with India moving within hours to engage with the new dispensation.

"This election marks not only the triumph of democratic forces in the Maldives, but also reflects the firm commitment to the values of democracy and the rule of law," the statement said, adding, "In keeping with our 'Neighbourhood First' Policy, India looks forward to working closely with the Maldives in further deepening our partnership."