During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to the Maldives, President Mohamed Muizzu lauded India’s steadfast support in times of crisis, reaffirming India’s role as the Maldives’ “First Responder.” The leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation and committed to further deepening ties under the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.
Meeting at the President’s Office in Male, the two leaders discussed a wide range of sectors including development partnership, infrastructure, climate action, defence, and health. They acknowledged progress under the Colombo Security Conclave and expressed intent to further strengthen maritime security and defence cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted key economic initiatives, including a proposed Free Trade Agreement and Bilateral Investment Treaty, and noted significant steps in promoting digital transactions through UPI, RUPAY card adoption, and trade in local currencies to boost tourism and commerce.
Six Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged in sectors like fisheries, meteorology, digital infrastructure, pharmacopoeia, and a concessional Line of Credit worth ₹4,850 crore (approx. USD 550 million), aimed at boosting Maldives’ infrastructure and easing debt repayments by 40%.
Modi and Muizzu also virtually inaugurated major development projects such as a roads and drainage project in Addu City and six high-impact community projects. PM Modi handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 official vehicles to Maldivian authorities. Two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes (BHISHM), capable of treating 200 casualties, were also presented to the Maldives.
Symbolizing shared environmental commitments, both leaders planted mango saplings as part of India’s “Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam” and the Maldives’ “5 Million Tree Plantation” campaigns.
Marking the 60th anniversary of Maldives’ independence and diplomatic ties with India, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s unwavering support for the Maldives’ peace, progress, and development in line with its “Neighbourhood First” and “Vision MAHASAGAR” policies.
The meeting concluded with expressions of mutual respect, regional solidarity, and a shared vision for prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.