Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a historic state visit to the Maldives, becoming the first Head of Government to visit the island nation since President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. The visit, scheduled for July 26, coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence and six decades of diplomatic relations between India and Maldives.
Invited as the Guest of Honour for the Independence Day celebrations, PM Modi’s visit is expected to significantly deepen bilateral cooperation under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are likely to be signed, reinforcing India’s commitment to developmental partnership and regional stability.
This marks Modi’s third visit to the Maldives as Prime Minister and signals a renewed phase in bilateral engagement. Earlier this year, the two nations held a High-Level Core Group meeting to review progress under the India-Maldives Vision Document on Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.
India has remained a consistent development partner to Maldives, offering economic assistance including a $50 million Treasury Bill rollover in May. It has also ensured the supply of essential medicines through HLL Lifecare Limited, expanding access to affordable generics via the Janaushadhi network.
The defence partnership remains robust. In January, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh handed over defence equipment to Maldives during bilateral discussions with his counterpart Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon. Singh reaffirmed India’s support for the capacity-building of the Maldives National Defence Force.
Digital and financial linkages have also grown, with the launch of RuPay cards in Maldives last year, aimed at easing transactions for tourists and citizens alike.
The two countries had earlier unveiled a vision document outlining cooperation in defence, trade, infrastructure, health, and people-to-people ties. India has already been involved in developmental projects across ports, airports, housing, healthcare, education, sports, and water management in Maldives.
The Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as a reflection of the importance India places on Maldives within its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR framework.
Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed had once remarked, “Our safety, security, and prosperity rely on our good relations with India”—a sentiment echoed in the growing strategic and economic convergence between the two nations.
