Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to join the Maldives in celebrating its 60th Independence Day, calling it an “honour” to be part of this historic national event. The announcement came via a post on social media platform X, as Modi prepares for a state visit to the Maldives this Friday, at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
This high-profile visit signals a major step forward in diplomatic relations between the two countries. During his trip, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold talks with President Muizzu, focusing on expanding cooperation across key sectors. The visit will also see the launch of several joint development projects, and the signing of multiple bilateral agreements aimed at enhancing collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, trade, renewable energy, and security.
This will be Modi’s first visit to the Maldives since President Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. His last visit was in June 2019, during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The current visit comes amid a remarkable recovery in bilateral ties, which had faced challenges in recent years.
Tensions between the two countries had escalated when elements within the then-opposition PPM/PNC coalition—now the ruling party—propagated the “India Out” movement. The campaign, which called for the withdrawal of Indian military presence from the Maldives, strained diplomatic engagement and triggered backlash from across the region. A corresponding wave of anti-Maldives sentiment also emerged in sections of the Indian media, further complicating ties.
However, since assuming office, President Muizzu has taken decisive steps to rebuild trust with India, reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to constructive regional partnerships. His official visit to New Delhi in October 2024 marked a turning point, where he and Prime Minister Modi held productive talks and laid the groundwork for a renewed era of cooperation.
Now, with Modi’s return visit, the partnership between the Maldives and India enters a promising new chapter—defined by mutual respect, regional security, and sustainable development.
As the Maldives commemorates six decades of independence, the presence of the Indian Prime Minister at this year’s celebrations not only highlights the depth of the two nations’ historic ties but also reflects the Muizzu administration’s successful foreign policy strategy: one that places diplomacy, stability, and national interest at the forefront.
