PM Modi Meets Indian Diaspora in Maldives, Echoes of 'Modi-Modi' Fill the Air

International News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Maldives on a two-day official trip from July 25 to 26, 2025. This visit was special in many ways. It was Modi’s third visit to the Maldives, but the first under the presidency of Mohamed Muizzu, making it a significant diplomatic event.

Guest of Honour at Maldives’ 60th Independence Day

PM Modi was invited as the Guest of Honor at the celebration of Maldives’ 60th Independence Day, symbolizing the strengthening of ties between the two nations. His presence at such a key national event reflects India’s growing influence in the region.

Grand Welcome by the Indian Community in Male

Modi landed at Velana International Airport in Male on the morning of July 25. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner, and children presenting cultural performances warmly welcomed him. The Indian community gathered in large numbers, cheering "Modi-Modi" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" as they welcomed him warmly.

High-Level Bilateral Talks and Major Agreements

PM Modi held one-on-one talks and delegation-level discussions with President Muizzu. Both sides reviewed the progress of the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, signed in October 2024.

One of the key announcements was a new line of credit worth ₹4,850 crore (around €565 million) from India to support Maldives in areas such as infrastructure, health, housing, and maritime security.

India also agreed to restructure an existing loan, reducing Maldives’ annual repayment burden by 40%, from $51 million to $29 million.

Defence and Digital Cooperation Boosted

PM Modi inaugurated the new building of the Maldives Defence Ministry (Dhoshimeyna Building), built with India’s grant support. India also delivered 72 heavy vehicles and provided 3,300 social housing units to the Maldives National Defence Force.

Several digital cooperation projects were also launched:

• UPI-based digital payment services
• Acceptance of RuPay cards through collaboration with NPCI
• Local currency transaction facility between India and Maldives

Repairing Ties After Diplomatic Strains

In recent years, India-Maldives relations have seen tension due to the pro-China stance of President Muizzu's government. However, this visit marks a shift. With strategic investments, economic support, and people-to-people diplomacy, India has worked to restore mutual trust.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the visit as timely and effective and said both nations have laid the foundation for broader cooperation across multiple areas.

PM Modi’s Message and Vision

PM Modi said the visit marked the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral diplomacy, especially in the areas of economic cooperation, maritime security, and strategic partnership. He emphasized that peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean is a shared goal for both India and the Maldives.

Visit Summary at a Glance

Date            Key Events
26 July – Served as the Chief Guest at Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations.
- Inauguration of projects
- Joint press conference