Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Velana International Airport in Malé, Maldives, on Friday, where he was accorded a ceremonial reception, beginning a high-profile state visit.
Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu himself welcomed the Indian leader in the presence of traditional performances and rousing choruses of "Vande Mataram," symbolizing the strong cultural and diplomatic connection between the two countries.
Modi’s visit comes at the invitation of President Muizzu, who has designated the Indian Prime Minister as the Guest of Honour for the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations — a diplomatic gesture reflecting the growing warmth between New Delhi and Malé.
This marks Modi’s third trip to the Maldives, and notably, he becomes the first foreign head of state or government to visit under President Muizzu’s administration.
In a press release, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "The two leaders will also review the progress in implementation of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership', agreed upon during the State Visit of the President of Maldives to India in October 2024."
The visit is a component of India's wider strategic engagement under its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, and responds to Vision MAHASAGAR, a regional vision conceived with the aim to develop cooperation and security in the Indian Ocean.
Some of the key items on the agenda in the bilateral talks are infrastructure schemes, defence cooperation, and enhancing economic ties — all issues core to the widening partnership between the Maldives and India.
India and the Maldives share a friendship based on centuries of mutual heritage — with shared linguistic, cultural, religious, and trade connections. India was one of the first countries to acknowledge Maldivian independence in 1965 and open diplomatic relations. The bilateral relationship has since been consistently friendly and free of significant political conflict.
A defining moment in the relations came in 1988, when India quickly deployed military aid to prevent a coup bid in the Maldives. India's quick withdrawal after the operation reassured Maldivian sovereignty and solidified India's position as a trustworthy ally.
The value of this visit is further underscored by its timing — it coincides with the 60th anniversary of independence of the Maldives, as well as the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, as noted in the official press release.
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