Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives as the Guest of Honour for its 60th Independence Day marks a diplomatic reset between the two nations, following months of strained ties and a brief tilt towards China. The shift—from the “India Out” campaign to a warm reception for PM Modi—is seen as a strategic recalibration by Malé, driven by economic pressures and a recognition of India’s enduring importance.
Tensions peaked in early 2024 after derogatory remarks against PM Modi by Maldivian officials led to widespread backlash in India. The diplomatic row sparked calls to boycott the Maldives, pushing Indian tourism promotion towards Lakshadweep. Despite provocations and demands for Indian troop withdrawal, New Delhi opted for measured diplomacy. India quietly replaced its 76 military personnel with technical staff from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in May, easing tensions while retaining strategic influence.
Meanwhile, the Maldives was grappling with economic distress, limited Chinese support, and shifting political dynamics. Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer’s visit to India in May and President Mohamed Muizzu’s five-day visit in October 2024 laid the groundwork for renewed engagement. These efforts culminated in PM Modi’s historic third visit to the Maldives—the first by a head of government under President Muizzu’s administration. During their joint appearance, both leaders unveiled a commemorative postal stamp featuring traditional boats—the Indian Uru and Maldivian Vadhu Dhoni—symbolising their shared maritime heritage and centuries-old ties.
President Muizzu called India a “trusted friend,” acknowledging its support during challenging times. He praised Modi’s visit as a catalyst for boosting tourism and strengthening people-to-people ties. Modi echoed these sentiments, stating that while the two countries mark 60 years of diplomatic relations, “the roots of our ties are older than history and as deep as the sea.”
India announced a new concessional Line of Credit worth nearly USD 565 million (₹4850 crore) to support infrastructure development in the Maldives. Additionally, the two leaders signed an Amended Agreement reducing Maldives’ annual debt repayment obligations by 40%, easing its economic burden. India also pledged to move forward on a Free Trade Agreement and a Bilateral Investment Treaty, reaffirming its economic commitment to the archipelago.
In defence and maritime security, PM Modi reiterated that “India will always support the Maldives to strengthen its defence capabilities,” emphasizing that mutual trust underpins their cooperation. The two countries signed six MoUs covering fisheries, meteorology, digital public infrastructure (including UPI integration), Indian Pharmacopoeia standards, concessional credit, and infrastructure funding.
Under its “Neighbourhood First” and Vision MAHASAGAR policies, India also gifted two Aarogya Maitri Health Cube [BHISHM] units—portable medical kits capable of treating 200 casualties and sustaining six medical personnel for 72 hours—demonstrating India’s role as a first responder in crisis situations. President Muizzu welcomed these initiatives and acknowledged India’s unwavering support in times of need.
The two sides discussed deeper collaboration in climate action, capacity building, healthcare, and regional security, particularly through the Colombo Security Conclave, which facilitates coordinated responses to shared threats in the Indian Ocean. Both leaders also agreed to work together on Global South priorities like climate resilience, renewable energy, and disaster risk reduction.
In a significant gesture, President Muizzu strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir, standing in solidarity with India—marking a shift in tone from earlier narratives. Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed credited India with preventing the Maldives from defaulting during its worst financial crisis, stating, “If not for India, we would have gone into default.”
PM Modi received a grand welcome in Male, complete with a 21-gun salute, ceremonial guard of honour, and traditional performances. His portrait was prominently displayed on the Ministry of Defence building—symbolic of warming ties. At Republic Square, he attended the Independence Day celebrations, where thousands gathered to greet him.
Ultimately, PM Modi’s visit reaffirmed India’s position as the Maldives’ most trusted partner. With strategic diplomacy, economic aid, and cultural resonance, New Delhi has effectively reset the narrative—transforming a period of uncertainty into renewed cooperation and goodwill in the Indian Ocean region.