After a successful diplomatic trip to the UK, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked for the Maldives on Thursday, marking the second leg of his two-nation tour. PM Modi is in the Maldives for a two-day state visit at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu.
PM Modi lands in Male, Maldives, to a warm welcome by Maldivian President Muizzu, Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister and Minister of Homeland Security.
PM Modi’s visit to strengthen bilateral ties
PM Modi is the first foreign head of government to be officially hosted by President Muizzu since he assumed office in November 2023. The visit is widely seen as a diplomatic effort to reset relations between the two countries, which had cooled in recent months.
Chief guest at Maldivian Independence Day celebrations
PM Modi will be the chief guest at the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives, with ceremonies being held in Malé on Friday. His participation in the national event underlines the significance both nations place on rekindling diplomatic ties.
The occasion is also symbolic, as it marks the first high-level exchange between India and the Maldives since the new Maldivian government came to power. The shift in foreign policy under Muizzu, perceived to be more China-leaning, had previously caused friction in the relationship.
Talks, MoUs and development projects on agenda
Modi is scheduled to hold detailed bilateral talks with President Muizzu. The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing strategic cooperation, economic engagement, and maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.
According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Modi’s visit will also see the inauguration and handover of multiple India-supported development projects across the island nation. These initiatives are backed by Indian lines of credit, grants, and financial assistance.
Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, G Balasubramanian, confirmed that several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed during the visit. These agreements are set to cover infrastructure, capacity building, and regional connectivity.
The trip is seen as a key move by India to re-establish its role as a close and reliable partner to the Maldives, particularly after Muizzu’s administration took steps that were viewed as favouring China.
By attending the Independence Day celebrations and engaging in high-level talks, PM Modi is signalling a renewed commitment to regional cooperation and stability in the Indian Ocean.
