The Maldives will celebrate its 60th Independence Day on Saturday, July 26, 2025. On this occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the island nation as the ‘Guest of Honour.’ The visit is seen as a step towards strengthening the long-standing partnership and friendly relations between the two countries.
During his visit, PM Modi will hold a meeting with the Maldives President, Mohamed Muizzu, who is the 8th president of the Republic of Maldives.
A press note from India’s Ministry of External Affairs dated July 20 said, “The prime minister will be the ‘Guest of Honour’ at the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of the Independence of Maldives on July 26, 2025. During the visit, the prime minister will meet H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and hold discussions on issues of mutual interest.”
Prime Minister Modi and President Muizzu are likely to hold talks on key issues, mainly focusing on defence and economic ties between India and the Maldives. They will also review the progress of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,’ which was agreed upon during President Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024.
The Maldivesgovernment has planned a series of events to celebrate Independence Day. As per The Edition, the Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage has released the official schedule. The day will begin with a national flag-raising ceremony at Republic Square at 6:00 am. This will be followed by sports and cultural programs at 4:15 pm, which will include military drills and school parades. The main official ceremony is scheduled to be held at the Social Centre at 8:30 pm.
Before visiting the Maldives, Prime Minister Modi will travel to the United Kingdom from July 23 to 24, 2025. This will mark his fourth visit to the UK as India’s prime minister, following an invitation from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.