Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Male, Maldives, on Friday morning, receiving a grand ceremonial reception at Velana International Airport. Greeted warmly by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the Indian leader was welcomed with traditional Maldivian songs and enthusiastic chants of “Vande Mataram” echoing across the terminal, underscoring the deep-rooted friendship and cultural affinity between the two neighboring nations.
PM Modi is attending the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour, a role that reflects the strengthening diplomatic relations between the two countries. This visit marks Modi’s third trip to the island nation and is notably the first by any foreign head of state under President Muizzu’s current administration.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the visit serves as a milestone in reinforcing the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,’ which was initially laid out during President Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024.
This diplomatic engagement underlines India’s broader regional outreach under the ‘Neighbourhood First’ initiative and its Vision MAHASAGAR strategy, designed to boost cooperation and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
Talks between the two leaders are expected to revolve around enhancing infrastructure, bolstering defense collaboration, and improving economic integration. Both countries are aiming to elevate their long-standing cooperation into a more dynamic and multifaceted alliance.
India and the Maldives share a historic bond that transcends political shifts—anchored in shared culture, language, religion, and trade. India was among the first nations to recognize Maldivian independence in 1965, and the relationship has since remained cordial and free of friction.
India’s swift military intervention during the 1988 coup attempt further solidified its role as a dependable ally, especially after it promptly withdrew troops, respecting Maldivian sovereignty.
This visit also commemorates not only the 60th year of the Maldives’ independence but also six decades of diplomatic ties between the two countries, reaffirming their commitment to mutual growth and regional peace.
