Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Maldives underscores the enduring strength and strategic importance of the India-Maldives relationship. Emphasizing the archipelago’s pivotal role in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the comprehensive MAHASAGAR vision, PM Modi reiterated India’s pride in being Male’s “most trusted friend” and a “first responder” in times of need. This landmark visit, coinciding with the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations, highlights a partnership rooted deeply in shared history and a vision for future prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean region.
During a joint press statement with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, Prime Minister Modi extended congratulations on the Maldives’ 60th anniversary of independence, expressing gratitude for the invitation as ‘Guest of Honour.’ This visit also commemorates 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations, a bond PM Modi eloquently described as “older than history and as deep as the sea.” The release of commemorative stamps featuring traditional boats from both countries symbolized their shared heritage, portraying them not just as neighbours but as “co-passengers” on a journey of mutual progress. The growing cooperation in the defence and security sector further solidifies this mutual trust, exemplified by the inauguration of the Defence Ministry Building in Male, which PM Modi hailed as a “concrete building of trust” and a testament to their strong partnership.
A significant outcome of the visit was India’s announcement of a Line of Credit (LoC) amounting to USD 565 million to the Maldives. This financial commitment is set to bolster various development initiatives, building on the “Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Partnership” vision shared during President Muizzu’s visit to India last October. Several India-assisted projects are now moving from concept to reality, promising transformative changes for the Maldivian people. Key among these are 4,000 social housing units, designed to provide new homes and a fresh start for numerous families. Additionally, crucial infrastructure projects like the Greater Male Connectivity Project, the Addu Road Development Project, and the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport are poised to establish the region as an important transit and economic hub. The upcoming ferry system, expected to smooth inter-island commuting, further reinforces India’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and improving the lives of Maldivian citizens.
Beyond infrastructure, India and Maldives Partnership Flourishes Amidst Historic Celebrations, both leaders focused on bolstering direct economic engagement. Discussions are underway to finalize a Bilateral Investment Treaty and develop a Free Trade Agreement, aiming to transition “from paperwork to prosperity.” A crucial step towards this is the implementation of a local currency settlement system, enabling direct trade between the Indian Rupee and Maldivian Rufiyaa. The burgeoning popularity of UPI in the Maldives is also expected to significantly boost tourism and retail sectors, facilitating seamless transactions. In terms of regional security, India and Maldives are committed to strengthening maritime cooperation through the Colombo Security Conclave, a shared endeavour for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean. Both nations also acknowledged climate change as a “major challenge,” with India offering to share its expertise in promoting renewable energy solutions.
The warmth of the bilateral ties was palpable from the outset of PM Modi’s two-day State Visit. President Muizzu’s special gesture of personally welcoming PM Modi at the Male airport, along with key Maldivian ministers, underscored the importance placed on this visit. PM Modi expressed being “deeply touched” by this reception, conveying confidence that the India-Maldives friendship would “scale new heights of progress.” As PM Modi prepared to participate in the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour—marking his third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government since President Muizzu took office—the visit firmly cemented India’s role as a steadfast partner committed to the Maldives’ development, security, and shared future.