Karnataka offers support to develop Maldives’ IT industry

Bengaluru: At a luncheon to honour Maldives President Mohammed Muizzu and first lady Sajidha Mohammed at Raj Bhavan Wednesday, chief minister Siddaramaiah affirmed his govt's commitment to supporting the growth of the IT industry in the island nation.
Highlighting the Maldivian govt's interest in partnering with Bengaluru's IT sector, he said: "We are known as the Silicon Valley of India and have developed an ecosystem for start-ups, global capacity-building centres, artificial intelligence, and an innovation hub.We will be very happy to facilitate the growth of the IT industry in Maldives."
The event was attended by governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot and other dignitaries and showcased the potential for collaboration between Karnataka and Maldives.
Siddaramaiah expressed enthusiasm over fostering trade and cultural ties between Karnataka and Maldives. "We would be happy to have trade ties with Maldives to promote and market our handicrafts and handlooms to the large number of tourists visiting Maldives," he said.
Pointing out that Sajidha Mohammed studied in Bengaluru, the CM said the visit of the Maldivian delegation is a step towards strengthening a long-standing partnership between India and Maldives. "India has consistently proven to be a steadfast ally for the island nation," he added.