Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Male to a ceremonial welcome and was warmly received by President Mohamed Muizzu at the airport.
The visit marks Modi’s third to the island nation and the first by a head of state since Muizzu took office in November 2023.
PM Modi thanked President Muizzu for inviting him to join the 60th Independence Day celebrations and described the Maldives as a vital part of India’s Neighbourhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision.
India is the Maldives’ First Responder
Speaking at a joint press event, PM Modi expressed pride in India’s role as the Maldives’ most reliable partner. He highlighted India’s past support during natural disasters, the pandemic, and economic challenges. “For us, it is always friendship first,” he said.
“This year, India and the Maldives are also celebrating 60 years of their diplomatic relations. But the roots of our relations are older than history and as deep as the sea. The commemorative stamps released today display traditional boats of both nations. This reflects that we are not just neighbours but also co-passengers,” said PM Modi.
PM Modi added, “India is the closest neighbour of the Maldives. The Maldives holds an important place in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR vision. India is proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives. Be it a natural disaster or pandemic, India has always stood with them as first responders. Be it making essential commodities available or handling the economy after COVID, India has always worked together. For us, it is always friendship first.”
PM Modi emphasised growing defence ties, pointing to the inauguration of a new Defence Ministry building supported by India. Calling it ‘a concrete building of trust’, he underlined confidence in security and strategic cooperation.
India will extend a Line of Credit worth USD 565 million to support key Maldivian infrastructure projects.
PM Modi mentioned that 4,000 India-assisted social housing units will offer a fresh start for many Maldivian families. Ongoing initiatives like the Greater Male Connectivity Project, Addu Road Development Project, and the redevelopment of Hanimaadhoo International Airport were also highlighted.
PM Modi said, “Last year in October, during the President’s visit to India, we shared a vision on the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Partnership. Now, this is becoming a reality. It is a result of that our relations are touching new heights. Inauguration of several projects has become possible. 4000 social housing units, built with India’s assistance, will become a new beginning and a new home for several families in the Maldives. The Greater Male Connectivity Project, the Addu Road Development Project, and the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport will transform this entire region into an important transit and economic hub. Soon, with the beginning of the ferry system, commuting between different islands will be smoother. After that, the distance between islands will be measured in terms of just ferry time, and not GPS.”
The two leaders agreed to finalise a Bilateral Investment Treaty and work towards a Free Trade Agreement. PM Modi stressed enhancing trade through local currency settlements and expanding the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives to benefit tourism and retail sectors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi added, “To accelerate mutual investment, we are working towards finalising the Bilateral Investment Treaty. We are also in discussions to develop the Free Trade Agreement. Our goal is to move from paperwork to prosperity. With the local currency settlement system, we will be able to have direct trade between the Rupee and the Rufiyaa. The pace with which UPI is gaining momentum in the Maldives, tourism and retail will strengthen.”
India and the Maldives will cooperate further through the Colombo Security Conclave to ensure peace and stability in the Indian Ocean. PM Modi also identified climate change as a shared challenge and pledged India’s support in promoting renewable energy in the Maldives.
PM Modi said, “Peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region are our shared goals. Together, through the Colombo Security Conclave, we will strengthen regional maritime security. Climate change is a major challenge for both our countries. We have decided to promote renewable energy, and in this sector, India will share its experience with the Maldives.”
PM Modi’s visit, however, reaffirms India’s long-standing friendship with the Maldives and outlines a shared path forward in security, economy, and sustainability. His presence at the Independence Day celebrations marks a new chapter in regional partnership.
Also Read: PM Modi Receives Grand Welcome In Maldives; Signs Key MoUs And FTA Terms
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