Former President of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, has credited India with playing a crucial role in preventing his country’s financial collapse. Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day trip to the Maldives to attend the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations, Nasheed stated that Indian support was vital in helping the Maldives avert default during one of its most severe economic crises.
“If not for India, the Maldives would have defaulted,” Nasheed said in an exclusive interaction. He acknowledged that India’s prompt assistance during difficult times stabilized the nation’s fragile economy.
Nasheed emphasized that the economic partnership between the two nations goes far beyond monetary support—it’s built on regional trust and mutual resilience. “This partnership highlights the strength of regional solidarity and the deep-rooted trust between our countries,” he added.
Reflecting on Maldives’ foreign policy, Nasheed said the island nation has historically prioritized relations with India. However, past electoral cycles have sometimes shifted the foreign policy pendulum toward China. He noted that with democratic institutions strengthening, Maldives is now firmly adopting an India-first foreign policy stance.
He also noted the strategic relevance of Modi’s visit, calling it a reaffirmation of India’s enduring interest in the Maldives, especially given its location along key Indian Ocean maritime routes. “Maldives holds a critical position in the Indian Ocean, and PM Modi’s visit reflects India’s strategic commitment to our shared future,” Nasheed said.
On defense collaboration, Nasheed highlighted the essential nature of India-Maldives cooperation in ensuring maritime security, disaster readiness, and environmental protection in the region. He added that this partnership is critical, not optional.
Nasheed praised India’s economic rise, now boasting a GDP over $4 trillion, and said India’s growth benefits neighboring countries as well. He commended the Neighbourhood First policy, which has allowed the Maldives to link more deeply with India’s expanding economic influence.
Trade is a significant pillar of this relationship, and Nasheed advocated for a formal trade agreement to streamline commerce, especially in sectors like fisheries, logistics, and marine sustainability. He noted that Maldivian fish is already in high demand in Indian markets and formalizing trade would bring structure and mutual gain.
Tourism is another area set to benefit from stronger ties. Nasheed expects Indian visitor numbers to rise following Modi’s visit. He also pointed to the nearly completed Hanimadu Airport, financed through Indian credit, which will enhance connectivity between southern India and northern Maldives.
PM Modi’s visit on July 25–26 will include meetings with President Mohamed Muizzu to advance the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. The visit aims to reset ties following recent diplomatic strain and signals a renewed commitment to collaboration on all fronts—from trade and tourism to defense and regional stability.
