PM Modi Strengthens India-Maldives Bond at 60th Independence Celebration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations in Male as the guest of honour, marking a significant step in revitalizing India-Maldives relations after recent tensions. Welcomed by President Mohamed Muizzu at Republic Square, Modi joined top Maldivian leaders to witness a vibrant ceremony featuring a military parade and cultural performances by children and traditional artists.

In a post on X, Modi emphasized the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations, built on mutual respect, shared values, and extensive cultural and economic exchanges, pledging India’s commitment to supporting the aspirations of the Maldivian people.

Modi’s two-day visit, beginning July 25, included productive talks with Muizzu, resulting in a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit and the launch of negotiations for a free trade agreement. India also reduced the Maldives’ annual debt repayment by 40% (from USD 51 million to USD 29 million), a move aimed at easing the nation’s economic challenges.

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The visit, attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, underscores a turnaround from strains following Muizzu’s 2023 “India Out” campaign, with Modi calling India the Maldives’ “most trusted” friend.

Highlighting the Maldives’ global leadership in areas like climate change and its rich maritime heritage, Modi praised the nation’s transformative journey. He also met with the Indian community in Male, lauding their role in strengthening people-to-people ties. The visit signals a renewed commitment to cooperation, with both nations poised to deepen their partnership for mutual progress and global betterment.

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