PM Modi can visit Maldives this month, can participate in Independence Day celebrations!

Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi can visit Maldives on 26 July this month. This will be his first visit to Maldives since President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November 2023. PM Modi is likely to attend the Independence Day celebrations of Maldives as the chief guest on 26 July. Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu had invited Prime Minister Modi for this special occasion last year in 2024, which was recently reiterated by Maldives Foreign Minister Abdullah Khalil during his visit to India.

Sign of improvement in Maldives-India relations
This potential visit is considered an important step towards strengthening relations between India and Maldives. There was tension between the two countries for some time under the leadership of Maldives President Muizzu, especially due to Muizzu’s ‘India Out’ policy and the demand for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. However, in recent months, Maldives has taken several steps towards improving its relations with India. Muizzu visited India in October last year, where the two countries agreed to transform bilateral relations into a ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership’. India also decided to provide assistance under a bilateral currency swap agreement of Rs 30 billion and $ 400 million to deal with the financial challenges of Maldives.

Independence Day celebration is special
Maldives celebrates its Independence Day every year on 26 July, which commemorates gaining independence from British rule in 1965. On this day, colorful parades, presentations by the National Cadet Corps and the National Security Service, cultural performances by school children and a flag hoisting ceremony are organized. This event is especially grand in Male, the capital of Maldives. In 2025, this will be the 60th Independence Day of Maldives, to make it even more special, the presence of the Prime Minister of India is considered important. Let us tell you that in 2025, there is also the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Maldives.

Strategic importance of India-Maldives relations
Maldives is an important strategic partner of India in the Indian Ocean region. In recent years, the growing relations between Maldives and China had caused concern in India and Western countries. However, Muizzu has repeatedly assured that Maldives will not take any step against India’s security interests and is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

During this possible visit, Prime Minister Modi can inaugurate projects supported by India, including the Greater Male Connectivity Project. This project is an important infrastructure project funded by India connecting Male to Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. India has provided a line of credit of $ 400 million and a grant of $ 100 million for this project.

New warmth in bilateral relations
Maldives Foreign Minister Khaleel has visited India thrice this year, reflecting Maldives’ intent to strengthen ties between the two countries. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also reiterated India’s commitment to Maldives’ development and progress during his meeting with Khaleel. This visit, if it happens, will be Prime Minister Modi’s first visit to Maldives during Muizzu’s tenure.