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PM’s visit to the Republic of Maldives
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to the Republic of Maldives on July 25–26, 2025, marks a significant step forward in reinforcing India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” and “Vision MAHASAGAR” policies. This visit, PM Shri Modi’s third to the island nation and the first by a foreign head of government under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, underscores the deep-rooted strategic, developmental, and cultural ties between India and Maldives. The visit coincided with the 60th anniversary of Maldives’ independence and the establishment of diplomatic relations with India, adding historic weight to the already vibrant partnership.
Ceremonial Welcome and Diplomatic Engagements
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour and a cultural welcome at the airport—a special gesture by President Muizzu. Formal talks took place at the President’s Office in Malé, where both leaders reaffirmed the robust and time-tested friendship between their nations.
Key Agreements and MOUs
A pivotal outcome of the visit was the signing of six Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and agreements, reaffirming the expanding scope of India-Maldives collaboration:
Prime Minister attends the 60th anniversary celebrations of the independence of Maldives as Guest of Honour
During his ongoing visit to Male, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 26 July attended the 60th anniversary celebrations of the independence of Maldives as the ‘Guest of Honour’. This is the first time that an Indian Prime Minister is attending the Independence Day celebrations in Maldives. Prime Minister Modi is also the first foreign leader at the level of Head of State or Government to be hosted by President Muizzu.Prime Minister, accompanied by H.E Dr. Mohammed Muizzu, President of Maldives, witnessed the Independence Day parade at Republic Square. On the occasion, Prime Minister extended warm greetings to the people and government of Maldives. The celebrations showcased a lively parade by the Maldivian National Defence Forces and other local units, along with a string of cultural performances that dwelt on the achievements of Maldives as a modern nation.
PM Shri Modi thanked President Muizzu and the people of Maldives for their gracious invitation.
1. Fresh Line of Credit: A Rs. 4,850 crore (~USD 550 million) concessional line of credit—the first ever denominated in Indian rupees—was extended to Maldives for critical infrastructure and development projects.
2. Debt Relief: An amendatory agreement on existing Lines of Credit reduced Maldives’ annual debt repayment by 40%, from USD 51 million to USD 29 million.
3. Fisheries and Aquaculture: Strengthening one of Maldives’ key economic sectors through knowledge and capacity-sharing.
4. Meteorology Cooperation: An MOU between Indian and Maldivian meteorological institutions to enhance weather forecasting and disaster preparedness.
5. Digital Public Infrastructure and UPI Adoption: Agreement to implement India’s digital payment systems like UPI and RUPAY in Maldives, facilitating tourism and bilateral trade.
6. Indian Pharmacopoeia: Recognition of Indian pharmaceutical standards to boost medical trade and healthcare access.
The leaders also agreed to initiate negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement and a Bilateral Investment Treaty, offering new avenues for economic collaboration.
Defence Cooperation and Infrastructure Projects
A major highlight was the joint inauguration of the new Ministry of Defence building in Malé, a state-of-the-art eleven-storey structure built with Indian financial assistance. This landmark symbolizes the shared commitment to maritime security and regional stability.
Prime Minister Shri Modi also handed over 72 vehicles and equipment for the Maldivian National Defence Force and immigration authorities, bolstering operational readiness.
Further, he inaugurated:
• The Roads and Drainage System Project in Addu City.
• Six High-Impact Community Development Projects across various cities.
• 3,300 Social Housing Units in Hulhumalé, built under India’s Buyer’s Credit scheme.
These initiatives reflect India’s dedication to improving infrastructure and community welfare in the Maldives.
Humanitarian and Technological Cooperation
In a demonstration of India’s commitment to regional health resilience, PM Shri Modi handed over two Aarogya Maitri BHISHM Health Cubes to the Maldivian government. Each unit can treat up to 200 casualties and sustain six medical personnel for up to 72 hours in emergencies.
Such collaborative tools represent the convergence of India’s technological innovations and its humanitarian outreach.
Environmental Commitment and Cultural Bonds
In a symbolic gesture of environmental solidarity, PM Shri Modi and President Muizzu planted mango saplings, linking India’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign with Maldives’ “Pledge of 5 Million Trees”. This not only reinforced ecological cooperation but also reflected shared civilizational values.
The leaders also unveiled commemorative stamps to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, adding a cultural dimension to the strategic partnership.
Regional and Global Cooperation
The two leaders committed to working together on climate change, renewable energy, disaster risk reduction, and other Global South priorities. As island nations vulnerable to climate shifts, India and Maldives reaffirmed joint action for sustainability and climate justice.
President Muizzu thanked India for its role as Maldives’ First Responder during crises, while PM Shri Modi expressed gratitude for Maldives’ condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, reflecting shared values in combating extremism.
Outreach to Indian Diaspora and Maldivian Civil Society
On the second day, PM Shri Modi participated in Independence Day celebrations at Republic Square as the Guest of Honour, meet Indian community members and ITEC alumni, and engage with Maldivian political leaders, further strengthening people-to-people ties.