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Calling Maldives an “important” partner in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reaffirmed New Delhi’s unwavering support to the island nation.
Addressing a joint press briefing with President Mohamed Muizzu in Male, PM Modi said India takes “immense pride” in being Maldives' “most trusted friend” and has always stood by it as a first responder during times of need.
PM Modi is on a two-day State Visit to Maldives, where he is participating as the ‘Guest of Honour’ in the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. This is his third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government since President Muizzu assumed office.
Celebrating 60 years of diplomatic ties
"This year, India and Maldives are also celebrating 60 years of their diplomatic relations. But, the roots of our relations are older than history and as deep as the sea. The commemorative stamps released today display traditional boats of both nations. This reflects that we are not just neighbours but also co-passengers," said PM Modi.
"India is the closest neighbour of Maldives. The Maldives holds an important place in India's Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR vision. India is proud to be most trusted friend of Maldives. Be it a natural disaster or pandemic, India has always stood with them as first responders. Be it making essential commodities available or handling the economy after Covid, India has always worked together. For us, it is always friendship first," he added.
Defence ties a 'symbol of mutual trust'
PM Modi emphasised that defence and security cooperation between the two countries has strengthened significantly. He inaugurated the new Defence Ministry building in Maldives on Friday, which features a large portrait of him on its facade.
"Mutual cooperation in the field of defence and security is a symbol of our mutual trust. The Defence Ministry building, which is being inaugurated today, is a concrete building of trust. It is a symbol of our strong partnership," he said.
$565 Million Line of Credit, Key Infrastructure Projects
India will extend a fresh Line of Credit (LoC) worth $565 million to Maldives, PM Modi announced. He said the bilateral Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Partnership is now taking shape and leading to tangible outcomes.
"Last year in October, during the President's visit to India, we shared a vision on Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Partnership. Now, this is becoming a reality. It is a result of that our relations are touching new heights..."
He cited projects like the 4,000 India-assisted social housing units, the Greater Male Connectivity Project, Addu Road Development, and Hanimaadhoo International Airport upgrade as transformative ventures.
The two sides are working to finalise a Bilateral Investment Treaty and exploring a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the PM said. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a local currency settlement mechanism and expand India’s UPI system in Maldives.
"To accelerate mutual investment, we are working towards finalising the Bilateral Investment Treaty. We are also in discussions to develop the Free Trade Agreement. Our goal is to move from paperwork to prosperity..."
Joint security and climate goals
Both leaders pledged to work together to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region through the Colombo Security Conclave and greater maritime coordination.
"Peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region are our shared goals. Together, through the Colombo Security Conclave, we will strengthen regional maritime security. Climate change is a major challenge for both our countries..."
India will support Maldives with renewable energy projects as part of this cooperation.
Ceremonial welcome and warm reception
Earlier in the day, President Muizzu personally received PM Modi at Male airport in a special gesture. Top ministers from the Maldivian government were also present. PM Modi later posted on X:
"Landed in Male. Deeply touched by the gesture of President Muizzu to come to the airport to welcome me. I am confident that India-Maldives friendship will scale new heights of progress in the times to come."
PM Modi will participate in the Independence Day parade and national celebrations on Saturday, capping off a visit aimed at reaffirming India’s pivotal role in Maldives’ development and regional diplomacy.
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