Bilateral relations between India and the Maldives appear to be heading in a new direction. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Malé, the capital of the Maldives, on Friday for a two-day official visit, where he was warmly welcomed by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu at Velana International Airport.
Malé: Bilateral relations between India and the Maldives have received new impetus with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic two-day visit to the Maldives. During this visit, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu described India as the country's "closest and most trusted partner." Both countries' leaders emphasized their b and forward-looking relations in a joint press conference.
New Momentum in India-Maldives Relations
Prime Minister Modi's visit comes at a time when India and the Maldives are celebrating the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. Upon arriving in Malé on this occasion, Prime Minister Modi was given a grand welcome at Velana International Airport. President Muizzu said, "India has long been the closest and most reliable partner of the Maldives."
Our cooperation extends from security and trade to areas such as health, education, and digital development, positively impacting the daily lives of our citizens. He further stated that hundreds of Maldivians travel to India every day for medical treatment, education, and business. Similarly, Maldivian citizens residing in India are also warmly welcomed.
PM Modi's Message: We Are Not Just Neighbors, But Fellow Travelers
In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Maldives as India's closest neighbor, stating that it is an important part of India's 'Neighborhood First' policy and 'SAGAR Vision'. PM Modi said, "India is proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives. Whenever there has been a crisis, whether it is a natural disaster or the COVID pandemic, India has always helped the Maldives by being the 'First Responder'."
He also stated that there is deep cooperation between the two countries in the areas of maritime security, strategic cooperation, and citizen benefit, which will further strengthen in the times to come.
India's 'Friendship Gift' and Defence Cooperation
Another significant aspect of this visit was the inauguration of the new state-of-the-art building of the Maldivian Ministry of Defence. This building has been constructed with the cooperation of India, and it was jointly inaugurated by both heads of state. On this occasion, PM Modi also gifted 72 vehicles and equipment to the Maldives National Defence Force. He said, "This Defence Ministry building stands on the solid foundation of trust and friendship. India will continue to cooperate in empowering the defence capabilities of the Maldives."
Prime Minister Modi and President Muizzu both expressed their commitment to working together for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region. Modi said that the partnership between India and the Maldives is not just strategic, but is based on human values and a shared future.
