Maldives Not Just India's Neighbour But Co-Traveller: PM Modi In Malé

Last Updated:July 25, 2025, 18:57 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the diplomatic relations between the two nations are reaching new heights.

PM Modi addressing joint presser with Mohamed Muizzu. (X)

PM Modi in Maldives: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the India-Maldives diplomatic ties and announced the extension of $565 million line of credit to the Maldives.

Addressing a joint presser with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu after delegation talks in Malé, the Prime Minister said both the nations are celebrating 60 years of their diplomatic relations, but the roots of these ties are “older than history and as deep as the sea."

He further said that the diplomatic relations between the two nations are reaching new heights.

Both leaders also released commemorative stamps depicting traditional boats of both nations. PM Modi said that this reflects that we are not just neighbours but also co-passengers.

The Prime Minister further said that New Delhi is proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives. He said that the archipelago nations hold an important place in both India’s “Neighbourhood First" policy and the MAHASAGAR vision.

“Be it a disaster or a pandemic, India has always stood by as the ‘First Responder’. Whether it is about providing essential commodities or managing the economy post-COVID, India has always worked together with the Maldives," he said.

The Prime Minister also announced to extend a $565 million line of credit to the Maldives.

“To give a new flight to our development partnership, we have decided to provide a “line of credit" of 565 million dollars, which is approximately five thousand crore rupees, for the Maldives. This will be used for projects related to the development of infrastructure here, in line with the priorities of the people of the Maldives," he said.

PM Modi further emphasised that for India, it is always friendship first.

He also assured that India will always support the Maldives to strengthen its defence capabilities. He said that cooperation in the field of defence and security is a testament to mutual trust.

“Mutual cooperation in the field of defence and security is a testament to mutual trust. The Defence Ministry building, which is being inaugurated today, is a concrete structure of trust. It is a symbol of our strong partnership," he said.

PM Modi further laid emphasis on the extensive economic and maritime partnership between New Delhi and Male. He said that during President Muizzu’s visit to India in October, several developmental projects were discussed.

“Inauguration of several projects has become possible. 4000 social housing units, built with India’s cooperation, will become a new beginning for several families in the Maldives. These will be their new houses. Greater Malé Connectivity Project, Addu Road Development Project and redevelopment of Hanimaadhoo Airport – this entire area will emerge as an important transit and economic centre. Soon, with the beginning of the ferry system, commuting between different islands will be smoother. After that, the distance between islands will be measured in terms of just ferry time, and not GPS," he said.

The Indian Prime Minister also said that India and the Maldives will work towards finalising a bilateral investment treaty, and talks on ‘Free Trade Investment’ have also begun.

He added that with the local currency settlement system, New Delhi will be able to have direct trade between the Rupee and the Rufiyaa.

“The pace with which UPI is gaining momentum in the Maldives, tourism and retail will strengthen," he said.

Outcomes Of PM Modi’s State Visit

Extension of Line of Credit (LoC) of Rs 4,850 crores to MaldivesReduction of annual debt repayment obligations of Maldives on Gol-funded LoCsLaunch of India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA) negotiationsJoint issuance of commemorative stamp on 60th anniversary of establishment of IndiaMaldives diplomatic relationsHanding over of 3,300 social housing units in Hulhumale under India’s Buyers’ Credit facilitiesInauguration of Roads and Drainage system project in Addu cityInauguration of 6 High Impact Community Development Projects in MaldivesHanding-over of 72 vehicles and other equipment

PM Modi In Maldives

PM Modi held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President, focusing on consolidating cooperation in areas of trade, defence and infrastructure, marking a major turnaround in the ties after a spell of unease.

The two leaders held a one-on-one meeting before settling down for delegation-level talks.

PM Modi’s two-day trip to the island nation, which comes immediately after his landmark visit to the UK, holds strategic significance as Muizzu had come to power in 2023 on an ‘India Out’ poll campaign.

He arrived at Velana Airport in Male on Friday. In a special gesture, Muizzu welcomed PM Modi at the airport as he arrived from the United Kingdom. Maldives Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister and Minister of Homeland Security were also present at the airport to welcome PM Modi.

He is visiting the archipelago nation at the invitation of President Muizzu to participate as the Guest of Honour at the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. India was among the first nations to recognise Maldivian independence in 1965 and establish diplomatic relations.

He was also accorded a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour at the Republic Square in Male. Muizzu accompanied PM Modi at the venue, where the national anthems of both India and the Maldives were played.

PM Modi received a 21-gun salute at the ceremonial welcome. Children performed a dance at the venue.

PM Modi met with the ministers and officials of the Maldivian Cabinet at Republic Square.

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Male, Maldives

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