Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met H. E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, at the President’s Office in Male on July 25, during an official visit. Prime Minister Modi was received with a ceremonial welcome at Republic Square, reflecting the close friendship between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi extended greetings on the 60th anniversary of Maldives’ independence and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Maldives. Both leaders highlighted the centuries-old friendship, strengthened by people-to-people ties, and reviewed progress under the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.
The leaders discussed cooperation in development, infrastructure, capacity building, climate action, and health. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen defence and maritime security, noting ongoing collaboration under the Colombo Security Conclave.
Prime Minister Modi stressed that the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Bilateral Investment Treaty would open new economic opportunities. He welcomed progress in the adoption of UPI, acceptance of RuPay cards, and trade in local currencies to boost digital economy and tourism.
Six MoUs were exchanged covering fisheries, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian pharmacopoeia, and a new Line of Credit worth ₹4,850 crores (approx. USD 550 million) for Maldivian infrastructure. An amendatory agreement on existing LoCs was also signed, cutting Maldives’ annual debt repayment by 40%.
Both leaders virtually inaugurated infrastructure projects including a roads and drainage system in Addu City, six community development projects, and handed over 3,300 social housing units. India also gifted 72 vehicles to Maldivian defence and immigration authorities and provided two Aarogya Maitri Health Cube sets, capable of treating 200 casualties in emergencies.
Marking a shared commitment to sustainability, the two leaders planted mango saplings under India’s “Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam” campaign and Maldives’ “Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation” drive.
Source – Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India (MEA India)
