In a powerful display of bilateral camaraderie and diplomatic respect, the Maldives accorded a grand ceremonial welcome to the Prime Minister of India, His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, upon his arrival in Malé on Friday afternoon. The official ceremony, held at Republic Square, marked the beginning of Prime Minister Modi’s first state visit to the Maldives since commencing his third consecutive term in office.
Prime Minister of India, His Excellency Shri @narendramodi receives a ceremonial welcome during his state visit to the Maldives. His Excellency President Dr @MMuizzu received the Prime Minister at Republic Square, where Aminiya School students performed a cultural dance. MNDF… pic.twitter.com/ABtcFs7ZCA
— The President’s Office (@presidencymv) July 25, 2025
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu led the ceremonial reception, personally welcoming the Indian Premier in a gesture that signified the deepening friendship between the two neighboring nations. The event unfolded with a vibrant cultural performance by students of Aminiya School, reflecting the Maldives’ rich heritage and hospitality.
A 21-gun salute by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) echoed through the capital, as the national anthems of both nations were played. The ceremony continued with a formal Guard of Honour and the presentation of dignitaries from both the host and visiting delegations, highlighting the mutual respect and diplomatic goodwill that underpin Indo-Maldivian relations.
This high-level visit comes at a pivotal time as the Maldives continues to pursue a sovereign-first foreign policy under President Dr Muizzu, while also engaging constructively with key international partners. Prime Minister Modi’s visit is widely seen as a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to regional stability, development cooperation, and shared prosperity with the Maldives.
As President Muizzu and Prime Minister Modi prepare for official talks, expectations are high for discussions that will further strengthen economic collaboration, infrastructure development, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
This visit marks not just a diplomatic milestone, but also a celebration of the enduring friendship between the Maldives and India.