Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded a two-day visit to the Maldives, where he attended the island nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations as the guest of honour. The visit is seen as a significant step towards revitalising India-Maldives relations following a period of strain.
Modi was warmly welcomed by President Mohamed Muizzu and senior members of his Cabinet at Republic Square in Malé, the venue of the grand celebrations. Sitting beside President Muizzu, the prime minister watched a 50-minute ceremony featuring a military parade and vibrant cultural performances by children and traditional artistes. The event was attended by top Maldivian political and military leaders, as well as members of the Indian delegation including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
“This momentous occasion showcased the rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit of the Maldivian people,” Modi said in a post on social media. “It also signified the country’s journey of transformation-from ancient maritime traditions to leadership in global climate action.”
The prime minister reached Malé on Friday, following an official visit to the UK, and held extensive talks with President Muizzu. The discussions focused on deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, defence, and maritime security. After the talks, India announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit to the Maldives and launched negotiations for a free trade agreement.
The two countries also signed six agreements covering fisheries and aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian pharmacopoeia, and concessional financing.
In a significant economic relief gesture, New Delhi reduced the Maldives’ annual debt repayment obligation by 40%, from USD 51 million to USD 29 million. This move is seen as an effort to help the Maldivian economy amid ongoing financial challenges.
Modi also interacted with the Indian community in the Maldives, appreciating their role in strengthening people-to-people ties. He commended the contributions of the diaspora and met with beneficiaries of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, calling them “true embodiments of India-Maldives friendship.”
Describing the visit as “very fruitful and productive,” the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Modi had now departed for India after a successful diplomatic engagement.
The renewed warmth in relations is particularly notable given that President Muizzu came to power in November 2023 following an “India Out” campaign. Modi’s visit, and the tone of the talks, signal a reset in the relationship between the two Indian Ocean neighbours.