President Muizzu Welcomes Prime Minister Modi in Maldives for Strategic Talks on Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India was ceremonially received in the Maldives on Friday morning, marking the beginning of a two-day state visit at the invitation of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The engagement, scheduled from 25 to 26 July 2025, represents Prime Minister Modi's first official visit to the Maldives since assuming office for a third consecutive term.

Touching down at Velana International Airport, the Indian Prime Minister was greeted personally by President Muizzu. The ceremonial elements extended with a guard of honour, assembled in the presence of senior representatives from both governments. Maldivian officials joined India's senior-most delegates, underscoring the diplomatic weight of the visit and signalling unity between the two administrations. The reception also featured a cultural performance by students of Majeedhiyaa School.

High-level talks are expected to follow, with President Muizzu and Prime Minister Modi set to discuss strategic bilateral and regional matters. Their engagement would include the inauguration of several joint initiatives and the formal signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding, each aimed at advancing cooperation across critical sectors of mutual interest.

This diplomatic encounter carries broader resonance, aligning with two national milestones: the 60th anniversary of Maldivian independence and six decades of formal ties between Malé and New Delhi. The Indian prime minister is scheduled to attend commemorative events, reaffirming a long-standing partnership shaped by history and shared regional vision.

Prime Minister Modi marks dual milestones in Dhivehi-language message

Prime Minister Modi has affirmed his confidence that relations between India and the Maldives will rise to "new heights" following his arrival in Malé. In a post to his official X account, written in Dhivehi, the prime minister expressed appreciation for being received at the airport by President Muizzu. He reiterated his belief that the bilateral partnership is poised to expand in the days ahead.

"I have arrived in Malé. I am very pleased that President Muizzu was present at the airport to welcome me. I am confident that the relationship between India and the Maldives will ascend to new heights in the coming days," Prime Minister Modi stated.

Prime Minister Modi also engaged with members of the Indian community residing in Malé, who had gathered at the airport to welcome him. Reflecting on their contribution to bilateral goodwill, the prime minister offered words of gratitude for their hospitality and highlighted their role in sustaining ties between the two countries.

"The citizens of India play a crucial role in advancing the friendship between India and the Maldives," Prime Minister Modi wrote. "I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet with Indian citizens residing in the Maldives during this visit. I express my gratitude for the warm welcome extended."

Indian leader reflects on shared history in Independence Day message

Earlier on social media, Prime Minister Modi said it is an honour to participate in celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence. "I am honoured to be taking part in the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives. This year we also mark 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic relations. The talks with President Muizzu will certainly add momentum to bilateral ties across diverse sectors," he wrote.

President Muizzu's familiarity with India's political establishment has deepened in recent years. He first travelled to New Delhi in June last year to attend Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in ceremony, followed by a state visit in October that further cemented intergovernmental ties.