A Grand Welcome and a New Chapter in Ties, PM Modi in Maldives received a ceremonial welcome marked by a 21-gun salute, national anthem, and traditional dance performances, symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship between India and Maldives. During his address alongside President Mohamed Muizzu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a significant line of credit worth $565 million to support Maldives’ development. Emphasizing the growing diplomatic bonds, he reaffirmed, “For us, it is always friendship first,” highlighting that India-Maldives relations are reaching unprecedented heights.
Key Meetings, Strategic Agenda, and Milestones
PM Modi in Maldives marks a significant diplomatic moment as he visits the island nation at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. Serving as the Guest of Honour at Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations, Prime Minister Modi is set to strengthen bilateral ties with high-level meetings and strategic discussions. Highlighting economic cooperation, India and Maldives have officially initiated negotiations for the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA), announced on Friday, July 25, 2025. This visit underscores India’s commitment to expanding trade, cultural ties, and regional security, further deepening the friendship between the two nations.
PM Modi in Maldives After Sealing Historic India-UK FTA
PM Modi in Maldives arrives on the second leg of his two-nation visit after concluding a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom, signaling a new era of economic and strategic partnerships. During his meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the two leaders unveiled the “India-UK Vision 2035”, focusing on economy and growth, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate action, and education. Continuing his diplomatic momentum, PM Modi announced a $565 million line of credit to Maldives, underscoring India’s commitment to supporting the island nation’s development and strengthening regional cooperation. This visit cements India’s growing role as a global economic and strategic power.
#WATCH | Malé, Maldives: PM Narendra Modi says, “As a new flight to our development partnership, we have decided to extend a Line of Credit of 565 million dollars, around Rs 5000 Crores, to Maldives…”
(Video: ANI/DD News) pic.twitter.com/2U1fytgZwQ
— ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2025
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Pushing Regional Security and Strategic Partnership
Building on India’s growing global influence, PM Modi in Maldives is set to enhance defence collaboration and maritime security with the island nation. By extending a $565 million line of credit and pushing for joint initiatives in the Indian Ocean region, India is positioning itself as a steadfast partner for Maldives’ security, stability, and sustainable growth. This strategic partnership aims to counter emerging regional challenges while reinforcing India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy.
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Strengthening Trade, Culture, and Maritime Bonds
PM Modi in Maldives highlighted that India and Maldives are not just neighbours but co-passengers on a shared journey of growth and prosperity. Emphasizing India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, he underscored the extensive economic and maritime partnership between New Delhi and Malé. India’s support in transformative projects like the construction of 4,000 social housing units, the Addu Road Development Project, and the redevelopment of Hanimaadhoo International Airport reflects the depth of this collaboration. Drawing on the symbolism of traditional boats of both nations, Modi reaffirmed that cultural ties and trade are steering bilateral relations towards a brighter, more interconnected future.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly inaugurate Dhoshimeyna Building, the newly-built Ministry of Defence building in Malé, Maldives.
(Video: ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/QANuS8BmNa
— ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2025
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New Era of Climate, Technology & Defence Partnership
PM Modi in Maldives reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to supporting the island nation’s climate resilience, technological advancement, and defence capabilities. Welcomed with vibrant banners and Indian flags across Malé, Modi described the reception as “memorable” on social media. During his talks with President Mohamed Muizzu, both leaders launched a new partnership framework, focusing on sustainable energy, digital innovation, and maritime security. In a major economic move, President Muizzu announced the initiation of the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA), signaling a stronger economic and strategic bond between the two nations. Modi emphasized that India’s support for Maldives will always remain firm, particularly in strengthening defence and regional stability.