The Maldivian capital, Malé, was decked out in vibrant colours and Indian flags on Friday as the island nation prepared to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his two-day state visit. Streets were adorned with banners, posters, and festive decorations, reflecting the excitement surrounding the high-level visit.
Posters reading “Warm Greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi” were seen across the city, with several featuring his photograph. Indian flags lined key roads, and children were spotted holding paintings and images of PM Modi in anticipation of his arrival.
PM Modi, arriving from the United Kingdom after completing the first leg of his two-nation tour, is visiting the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. He will attend the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations on July 26 as the Guest of Honour.
This marks Modi’s third visit to the Maldives and the first visit by a foreign head of state during President Muizzu’s tenure. The visit also coincides with the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations.
Members of the Indian diaspora in the Maldives expressed pride and joy over the visit.
“We are delighted to welcome PM Modi here today. I’ve been living in the Maldives for 24 years — it feels like my second home,” said one Indian expatriate.
Another added, “We are very excited to meet him. I’ve been working here for 15 years, and this is a proud moment.”
During his visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Muizzu, focusing on strengthening cooperation in areas such as development, trade, infrastructure, and security.
India has been a key development partner for the Maldives, supporting several major projects and providing assistance during emergencies.
In a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs stated: “A landmark visit to the UK concludes, elevating India-UK trade and economic ties to new heights. PM Narendra Modi emplanes for the second leg of his tour — Maldives.”