Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently in the Maldives for a two-day state visit, a trip that signifies a notable improvement in relations between the two countries. The visit, which began on July 25, 2025, follows an invitation from Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and coincides with the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations and the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations. Modi is attending the Independence Day celebrations in Malé as the Guest of Honour.
This visit marks a significant turnaround in ties that had been strained in recent times. Mohamed Muizzu, during his presidential campaign, adopted an "India Out" stance. However, a thaw in relations became apparent within months, highlighted by a meeting between the two leaders at the UN COP 28 climate summit in Dubai in December 2023, where they agreed to strengthen economic partnership and people-to-people connections.
Despite the initial improvement, early 2024 saw a decline in the relationship after derogatory remarks were made by junior Maldivian ministers against PM Modi. This led to a social media campaign in India calling for a boycott of the Maldives, which threatened the island nation's tourism-dependent economy. Adding to the tension, President Muizzu stated that no Indian military personnel would be present in the Maldives after May 10, 2024. By early May 2024, India had completely withdrawn its troops from the Maldives.
However, relations have since improved, paving the way for President Muizzu's state visit to India in October 2024. During this visit, India signed a crucial currency swap agreement with the Maldives for $750 million, valid until 2027, to help the island nation address its foreign currency challenges. The two countries also agreed on a "vision statement" for a "comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership".
In May 2025, India rolled over a $50 million treasury bill to support the Maldives in bolstering its reserves and stabilizing its economy. According to sources in Male, Indian flags have been displayed across the city to welcome PM Modi. Modi is the first Head of State to visit the Maldives since President Muizzu assumed office in November 2023.
During his visit, PM Modi will meet with President Muizzu and inaugurate several India-assisted development projects. Multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are also expected to be signed. The visit is seen as an opportunity to reset relations and reinforce India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision for regional security.
G Balasubramanian, India's High Commissioner to the Maldives, emphasized the strong relationship between the two countries, highlighting their historical and geographical connections. He described the Maldives as a key partner in India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its MAHASAGAR vision.
Former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih welcomed Modi's visit, calling it "a mark of respect for the Maldivian people" and a reflection of India's commitment to regional partnership. He expressed confidence that the visit would elevate the relationship between the two countries to a new level.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted that the positive shift in India-Maldives ties is a result of "hard work" and attention paid to the relationship at the highest levels. He also highlighted the "India-Maldives joint vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership' that was finalized last year".
India is one of the largest trade partners of the Maldives, with bilateral trade worth almost $500 million. Both countries are engaged in discussions for a free trade agreement (FTA) and an investment treaty, particularly focused on renewable energy and fisheries. India is also implementing several development projects in the Maldives, including the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.
