Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a landmark visit to the Maldives, highlighted the enduring and multi-faceted friendship between India and the island nation, coinciding with two significant milestones — the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives and the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations.
“This happy coincidence has made my visit even more special,” PM Modi said while addressing a state banquet hosted in his honour by President Mohamed Muizzu.
He further added, “It is an honour for me to attend as the Guest of Honour. On behalf of all Indians, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of the Maldives.”
Underscoring the depth of cultural ties, PM Modi said, “Our shared heritage is as old as the monsoon and as sweet as Addu Bondi. Our languages reflect the depth of our culture. Several words in Dhivehi have come from India. Our tastes are also similar — absolutely perfect despite being different.”
People-to-People Ties and Tourism
The Prime Minister praised the warm relations between the people of both nations.
“The loving relations that have been formed between our people for centuries are ever strong even today. Your tourist number 10 lakh this year turned out to be an Indian,” he remarked.
Speaking on India’s enduring partnership with the Maldives, PM Modi said, “Our two nations are colleagues of the Global South. Whether in infrastructure or capacity building, India has always stood as a true partner. Now, we must move forward on trade, security, and sustainable development.”
President Mohamed Muizzu acknowledged the significance of the visit, stating, “This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India — a milestone that reflects not only our shared history but also the depth of our partnership.”
He added, “The Indian Ocean has witnessed our shared journey for centuries — with ties that no tide can break.”
He also congratulated PM Modi for becoming India’s second-longest-serving Prime Minister and praised his leadership.
This visit is PM Modi’s first to the Maldives since assuming office for a third consecutive term.
Attending the banquet were Maldivian Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Special Envoy Mohamed Waheed Hassan, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and senior officials from both nations.
This symbolic visit reaffirms the commitment of both countries to a stronger, more prosperous future rooted in trust, culture, and shared values.
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