PM Narendra Modi Arrives in Maldives After UK Visit; President Muizzu Welcomes Him with a Hug at Male Airport. Entire Cabinet Present. PM Modi is the Chief Guest at the Independence Day Celebrations.
PM Modi Maldives Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi headed straight to Male, the capital of Maldives, after his visit to the UK. As soon as PM Modi arrived in Male on Friday morning, the atmosphere was remarkably special. At Male International Airport, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu himself was present to greet Prime Minister Modi. Not only that, but the President's entire cabinet was also present at the airport to witness this historic arrival.
President Muizzu Welcomes with a Hug
Upon arrival at the airport, President Muizzu warmly met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and welcomed him with a hug. This scene reaffirms the deep and cordial relations between India and the Maldives. During this time, extensive security arrangements were made at Male Airport. The Maldivian Foreign Minister, Defense Minister, Finance Minister, and Homeland Security Minister, along with other senior officials, were present to receive the Indian Prime Minister.
Entire Cabinet Present, Special Honor Given
The presence of President Muizzu's entire cabinet together to welcome Prime Minister Modi symbolizes the extent to which the Maldives values its bilateral relations with India. Typically, only a select few ministers arrive to welcome a Head of State, but this time the scene was extraordinary. This clearly conveyed the message that the relationship between India and the Maldives is moving beyond political boundaries towards a b diplomatic partnership.
Special Invitation on Independence Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit is not only formal but also symbolic. He arrived in the Maldives at the personal invitation of President Muizzu. The Maldives is celebrating its 60th year of independence this year, and Prime Minister Modi has been invited as the Chief Guest on this special occasion. This invitation is proof that the Maldives considers India a trusted and close friend.
60 Years of India-Maldives Relations
Along with the Maldives completing 60 years of independence, India and the Maldives are also celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations. Formal diplomatic relations were established between the two countries in 1965. PM Modi's presence on this occasion is considered an important step towards further strengthening this friendship.
Importance of Strategic and Maritime Partnership
The relations between India and the Maldives are not only cultural or political but also extend to the areas of strategic and maritime security. The Maldives' role is crucial in India's security policy in the Indian Ocean Region. In recent years, several agreements have been signed between the two countries in areas such as defense, maritime surveillance, trade, health, and education.
China's Influence in the Background Also Discussed
Due to the increasing role of China in the Maldives' foreign policy in recent years, India has had to exercise caution on several occasions. However, Prime Minister Modi's visit and President Muizzu's hospitality at this level have made it clear that stability and strength remain in India-Maldives relations. This visit is considered an important part of India's Act East and Neighborhood First policy.
Future Plans to Be Discussed As Well
According to sources, several issues are likely to be discussed in the bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Muizzu. These include connectivity projects, infrastructure development, tourism, green energy, and cooperation in the education sector. Additionally, regional security and cooperation against terrorism may also be discussed.
