India is actively reinforcing its relationship with the Maldives, demonstrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming state visit from July 25-26, 2025. The visit is strategically timed to coincide with the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations on July 26th, where Modi will be the guest of honor. This marks the first visit by a Head of State or Government to the Maldives during President Mohamed Muizzu's term.
Modi's visit underscores India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy and its strategic focus on the Indian Ocean region, also known as Vision MAHASAGAR. The visit aims to reset bilateral ties after recent strains. Relations had cooled following a campaign backed by elements within the current Maldivian government.
During the visit, Modi and President Muizzu will engage in discussions on matters of mutual interest, with a focus on strengthening the India-Maldives partnership. They will also assess the progress of the "Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership," a joint vision adopted during Muizzu's visit to India in October 2024. Several India-funded infrastructure projects are slated for inauguration during the visit. A new line of credit from India to the Maldives is also under consideration and may be finalized during the visit.
The two countries are also expected to sign several Memoranda of Understanding aimed at deepening cooperation across various sectors of mutual interest. This reflects the importance India places on its maritime neighbor. Despite earlier tensions, both Male and Delhi have expressed a strong desire to repair relations, engaging in high-level visits. Assistance from New Delhi, including a USD 400 million currency swap agreement signed between the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in October 2024, has been crucial in boosting the Maldives' foreign exchange reserves.
PM Modi's visit also holds significance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India. This visit is expected to further solidify the close bilateral relationship between the two nations.
