Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day official visit to the Maldives in July 2025 has emerged as a strong diplomatic statement reaffirming India’s commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. As the chief guest at the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations, PM Modi’s presence marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations at a time when the island nation is recalibrating its foreign policy.

The visit commenced shortly after PM Modi's landmark trip to the United Kingdom, where India signed a Free Trade Agreement. Following his arrival in Malé, Modi was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at Republic Square, reflecting the warmth extended by President Mohamed Muizzu's government.

High-Level Meetings and Diplomatic Dialogues

PM Modi's diplomatic itinerary began with a bilateral meeting with President Mohamed Muizzu, where both sides discussed a range of issues, including economic cooperation, defence partnerships, and climate resilience. The discussions built upon Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024, during which several development projects were outlined.

India announced a $565 million line of credit, equivalent to ₹5,000 crore, aimed at funding key infrastructure projects in the Maldives. These include:

• 4000 social housing units, which will soon be home to thousands of Maldivian families.

• Greater Malé Connectivity Project

• Addu Road Development Project

• Redevelopment of Hanimaadhoo International Airport

According to PM Modi, these projects will transform the Maldives into a regional transit and economic hub, enabling smooth ferry transportation between various islands. He noted, "Soon, distances between islands will be measured not by kilometers, but by ferry time."

Strengthening Defence and Security Ties

PM Modi highlighted India’s continued support in enhancing Maldives’ defence capabilities, reaffirming trust and commitment between both nations. During the bilateral talks, PM Modi emphasized the importance of maritime security cooperation, vital for stability in the Indian Ocean Region.

India’s proactive role as the ‘first responder’ during emergencies, whether in pandemics, natural disasters, or economic crises, was also acknowledged. Modi said, “Whether it is about providing essential commodities or managing the economy post-COVID, India has always stood by the Maldives.”

Parliamentary and Political Engagements

PM Modi met with Maldivian Vice President HM Latheef and Speaker of the People's Majlis, Abdul Raheem Abdulla. The formation of the India-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group was celebrated as a key step toward legislative cooperation.

In a separate engagement, the Indian leader met former President Mohamed Nasheed, calling him a “strong advocate of deeper India-Maldives friendship.” The two leaders discussed the shared vision of the Mahasagar doctrine, which encompasses regional peace and cooperation across the Indian Ocean.

Former Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi also advocated for the country to adopt an 'India First' foreign policy, aligning with the strategic objectives expressed during PM Modi’s visit.

Commemorative Initiatives and Symbolic Diplomacy

To underscore the long-standing relationship between both countries, commemorative stamps featuring traditional boats from India and Maldives were jointly released by PM Modi and President Muizzu. Modi remarked that these symbols represent “co-passengers in the journey of development and culture.”

He further emphasized that India was among the first countries to recognize Maldivian independence in 1965, underscoring the depth of historic ties. “Our ties are older than history and as deep as the sea,” said PM Modi during a joint press conference.

Community Engagement and Cultural Diplomacy

As part of his packed schedule, PM Modi also interacted with Maldivian dignitaries, ITEC alumni, and the Indian diaspora in the Maldives. His outreach to the Indian community aimed at strengthening people-to-people connections, which form a vital part of India's broader cultural diplomacy strategy.

Daily Schedule Highlights – July 26, 2025:

• 10:45 AM – 12:40 PM: Series of meetings with top Maldivian officials including Speaker, Vice President, and former Presidents.

• 03:50 PM – 04:15 PM: Interaction with Indian community and ITEC alumni.

• 04:30 PM: PM Modi attends the Independence Day celebrations as chief guest.

• 06:15 PM: Departure for India.

Strategic Focus: Trade, Climate, Connectivity

The visit carried a distinct focus on economic partnership and climate cooperation, particularly as island nations like Maldives are highly vulnerable to rising sea levels and environmental degradation. Both leaders discussed collaborative efforts to develop climate-resilient infrastructure and promote renewable energy solutions.

India also reiterated its support in finalizing a Free Trade Investment Agreement with the Maldives, which is expected to boost economic engagement and bilateral commerce.

Resetting Ties After Past Strain

PM Modi's visit also comes against the backdrop of strained relations between the two nations in 2024, following controversial remarks by Maldivian leaders and shifts in diplomatic posture. However, President Muizzu’s invitation and Modi’s acceptance mark a reset in bilateral ties, focused on mutual respect, sovereignty, and cooperation.

The symbolic presence of the Indian Prime Minister at the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives was widely interpreted as a diplomatic olive branch and a sign of India’s rising profile in South Asia’s regional geopolitics.

In conclusion, PM Modi’s Maldives visit in July 2025 reaffirmed India’s position as Maldives’ closest development partner, combining strategic investments, cultural diplomacy, and defence cooperation. The extension of a generous line of credit, housing and infrastructure development, and direct people-level engagement collectively highlighted India’s Neighbourhood First and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. As regional dynamics continue to evolve, such visits play a pivotal role in shaping South Asian security and cooperation frameworks.

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