Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the Maldives for a two-day official visit. He landed at Velana International Airport in Male, where he was welcomed by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. Traditional songs and chants of "Vande Mataram" filled the air as the Indian Prime Minister stepped off his plane. This warm welcome showed the improving relations and strong cultural connection between the two neighbouring countries.

PM Modi is in the Maldives as the guest of honour for the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. This is a major diplomatic gesture and a sign of the growing bond between India and the Maldives. India was one of the first countries to recognise the Maldives after its independence in 1965. This also marks the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations.

This is PM Modi’s third visit to the Maldives, but it is the first visit by any head of state during President Muizzu’s time in office.

Talks on security & development cooperation

During this visit, PM Modi and President Muizzu will review the progress of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.’ This plan was agreed upon in October 2024, when the Maldivian president visited India.

The two leaders will also discuss cooperation in important areas like infrastructure development, defence partnerships, and economic connectivity. According to the Indian Foreign Ministry, these discussions will help strengthen the multi-faceted partnership between India and the Maldives.

The two countries share deep historical connections in language, religion, culture, and trade. This visit also reflects India’s 'Neighbourhood First' policy and its larger regional strategy called Vision MAHASAGAR, which aims to improve cooperation and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Historical bond and political changes

India has been a long-time friend of the Maldives. In 1988, when there was a coup attempt in the Maldives, India quickly sent military help. After restoring peace, Indian troops left the country without delay. This built a strong sense of trust between the two countries and showed India’s respect for Maldivian sovereignty.

In recent years, ties between the two countries went through a rough patch. During the 2023 elections, President Muizzu followed an ‘India Out’ campaign, which was started by former President Abdulla Yameen. This led to some distance between the two nations.

However, things began to improve after PM Modi and President Muizzu met at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December 2023. They both agreed to work together and “bolster economic and bilateral partnership.”

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