In a significant diplomatic outreach to a key Indian Ocean neighbor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Maldives during his ongoing two-day visit to the island nation. His meetings with top Maldivian leaders reflect a strong intent to deepen cooperation in key areas such as infrastructure, climate resilience, regional security, and capacity building.
🇮🇳🤝🇲🇻 Strengthening a Longstanding Partnership
Prime Minister Modi, who arrived in Male on Friday, began his Saturday engagements by meeting Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed, followed by discussions with Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis (Maldives’ Parliament), and former President Mohamed Nasheed.
“Our nations continue to work closely in sectors like infrastructure, technology, climate change, energy, and more. This is greatly beneficial to our people,” Modi posted on X.
“We look forward to deepening this partnership in the years to come.”
📈 Infrastructure & Development in Focus
During wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday, India announced a ₹4,850 crore line of credit to support development projects in the Maldives. This financial assistance reflects India’s commitment to its Neighbourhood First policy and the strategic importance of the Maldives in its Mahasagar (Indian Ocean) Vision.
The credit line is expected to bolster joint initiatives in port development, housing, renewable energy, healthcare, and climate adaptation — key areas that align with both countries’ long-term goals.
🏛️ Parliamentary & People-to-People Bonds
In his meeting with Speaker Abdulla, Modi highlighted the importance of strengthening parliamentary ties, expressing appreciation for the formation of the India-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group in the 20th Majlis.
“Talked about the deep-rooted India-Maldives friendship, including the close relationship between our respective Parliaments,” the Prime Minister said.
🌏 Regional Cooperation & Shared Vision
Prime Minister Modi also met former President Mohamed Nasheed, a long-time supporter of closer India-Maldives relations.
“He has always been a strong advocate of a deeper India-Maldives friendship,” Modi remarked.
“Spoke about how the Maldives will always be a valued pillar of our Neighbourhood First policy and Mahasagar vision.”
The discussions emphasized shared concerns around regional security, maritime cooperation, and climate change, especially vital for low-lying island nations like the Maldives.
🤝 Commitment to Capacity Building
A key theme throughout Modi’s visit was capacity building and skill development, reaffirming India’s ongoing role in supporting the Maldivian people through training programs, educational exchanges, and technological support.
“India remains committed to supporting capacity building in the Maldives,” Modi reiterated during his interactions.
🧭 A Strategic Relationship Moving Forward
Prime Minister Modi’s visit underscores India’s intention to not only maintain but also expand its strategic partnership with the Maldives — a vital neighbor in the Indian Ocean region. As the two nations deepen cooperation across a wide spectrum of sectors, the India-Maldives relationship stands as a pillar of regional stability, development, and shared prosperity.
