A New Era of Friendship: PM Modi’s Historic Maldives Visit Bolsters Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent state visit to the Maldives on July 25, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship, signaling a vibrant future for India-Maldives friendship. The visit, coinciding with the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations, underscored the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two nations and aimed at further solidifying their comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership. From a grand ceremonial welcome to high-level discussions, the visit reinforced the enduring spirit of India-Maldives friendship.

A Grand Welcome: A Testament to India-Maldives Friendship

Upon his arrival in Malé, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with immense warmth, reflecting the mutual respect and affection that defines the India-Maldives friendship.

• Arrival and Reception:
  • PM Modi landed in Malé on Friday, July 25, 2025, for a two-day state visit.
  • He was received by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, along with key cabinet members, a significant gesture as this was the first state visit by a foreign head of government hosted by President Muizzu since he assumed office in November 2023.
  • A traditional dance performance by children added a touch of local culture to the welcoming ceremony.
• Ceremonial Splendor:
  • At Republic Square, PM Modi was accorded a majestic ceremonial welcome, including a Guard of Honor by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
  • A resounding 21-gun salute, symbolizing profound respect, resonated across the square, highlighting the strong bilateral ties and the spirit of India-Maldives friendship.
  • The MNDF Drum and Trumpet Band provided a stirring musical accompaniment as PM Modi was escorted in a cultural procession to the President’s Office.
  • In a cherished Maldivian gesture of hospitality and honor, the MNDF presented PM Modi with the traditional ‘Haiykolhu’.

Strengthening Bonds: Key Engagements and Discussions for India-Maldives Friendship

The visit wasn’t merely ceremonial; it was packed with substantive engagements aimed at deepening cooperation across various sectors, reinforcing the essence of India-Maldives friendship.

• Signing the Guestbook:
  • Upon his arrival at the President’s Office, Prime Minister Modi signed the official guestbook, a symbolic act marking his presence and the significance of the visit. This act further cemented the shared history and future aspirations of India-Maldives friendship.
• Bilateral Meetings:
  • PM Modi held extensive one-on-one discussions with President Mohamed Muizzu, followed by delegation-level talks.
  • The discussions focused on consolidating cooperation in critical areas such as trade, defense, and infrastructure, all contributing to a robust India-Maldives friendship.
  • Both leaders witnessed the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and three agreements across various key sectors.
  • A significant outcome included a Line of Credit agreement for USD 565 million, earmarked for priority projects of the Maldivian government.
• Economic Partnership and Free Trade Agreement:
  • President Muizzu announced the initiation of negotiations for an India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA), a landmark step towards strengthening economic partnership and fostering deeper India-Maldives friendship.
  • India also rolled over a $50 million treasury bill in May 2025 and signed a crucial currency swap agreement for $750 million (available until 2027) to aid the Maldives with its foreign currency needs, showcasing India’s steadfast support.
• Addressing the Diaspora:
  • PM Modi interacted with the Indian diaspora in the Maldives, acknowledging their crucial role in fostering friendship between the two nations. He thanked them for the warm welcome, underlining the people-to-people connect vital for India-Maldives friendship.

A Shared Vision: Future of India-Maldives Friendship

The visit also celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives, underscoring a long-standing partnership and commitment to fostering even stronger India-Maldives friendship.

• 60 Years of Diplomatic Ties:
  • The visit coincided with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations, a milestone commemorated by the joint release of a special stamp.
  • PM Modi’s attendance as the Guest of Honour at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations on July 26, 2025, further highlighted the importance India places on this enduring India-Maldives friendship.
• Commitment to Regional Stability:
  • The leaders reaffirmed their joint vision of a “Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,” emphasizing cooperation for peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. This shared goal is fundamental to strengthening India-Maldives friendship.
• Ongoing Development Projects:
  • PM Modi is expected to inaugurate several India-assisted development projects during his visit, including the handover of remaining housing units from a 4,000-unit project and the provision of 72 vehicles to the MNDF. These initiatives are tangible expressions of India-Maldives friendship.

The visit of Prime Minister Modi to the Maldives has undoubtedly infused new vigor into the bilateral relationship. The warm reception, substantive discussions, and agreements signed are clear indicators of a renewed commitment to expanding cooperation and reinforcing the deep-rooted India-Maldives friendship, paving the way for a brighter shared future.