PM Modi to Attend Maldives Independence Day as Chief Guest:
International News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the Maldives on July 25 and 26, where he will participate as the Chief Guest in the island nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. His upcoming trip marks a significant diplomatic gesture, especially in light of recent tensions between the two countries.
PM Modi’s visit carries added weight, as it comes nearly a year after a diplomatic rift erupted between the two nations. The tension arose when three Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks about India and Prime Minister Modi, sparking outrage in India and leading to a diplomatic chill. Further straining relations, President Mohamed Muizzu, who came to power in 2023, openly displayed pro-China leanings—deepening India's concerns.
However, Modi’s visit now signals a thaw in relations and a renewed effort to reset bilateral ties.
PM Modi will be hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu, becoming the first foreign leader to be officially welcomed by him since assuming office. The two leaders are expected to hold bilateral talks, with strategic issues in the Indian Ocean region likely to be on the agenda.
During his stay in Malé, PM Modi will also inaugurate several development projects funded by India—demonstrating New Delhi’s continued commitment to supporting its island neighbor.
In a significant gesture ahead of the visit, India recently extended a $50 million line of credit to the Maldives for another year. This financial backing underlines India’s long-standing policy of assisting the Maldives during times of need.
Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid lauded India’s consistent and prompt support to the Maldives, especially during emergencies. “India is always the first to respond,” he said, adding, “It is because of their generosity and the deep-rooted ties between our peoples. Geography also plays a role, but the real reason is the big-heartedness of Indians.”
Shahid emphasized that despite diplomatic tensions, India has remained committed to the Maldivian people, irrespective of political changes. “Governments change, political parties rise and fall, but the people-to-people relationship remains solid and enduring.”
Echoing similar sentiments, former President Mohamed Nasheed acknowledged India’s critical role in stabilizing the Maldivian economy. “Without India’s support, we would have defaulted,” he admitted. Nasheed added that although Maldives traditionally followed an “India First” foreign policy, electoral cycles sometimes caused the country to drift between pro-China and pro-India alignments.
PM Modi’s visit reflects India’s broader foreign policy objective of fostering strong neighborhood ties based on mutual respect and development cooperation. His presence at the Maldives’ landmark celebration is not only symbolic but also an affirmation of India's intention to rebuild trust and ensure long-term strategic stability in the Indian Ocean region.
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