Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent two-day visit to the Maldives signifies a potential reset in relations between the two nations, which had experienced some strain following the election of President Mohamed Muizzu in November 2023. Modi's visit, his first since Muizzu assumed office, coincided with the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations, where he was invited as the Guest of Honour. This event also marked 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives.

During the visit, PM Modi held wide-ranging discussions with President Muizzu and other Maldivian leaders, focusing on strengthening cooperation in various sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and climate change. He also met with Vice-President Uz Hussain Mohamed and Speaker of the People's Majlis, Abdul Raheem Abdulla, emphasizing the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries and the close relationship between their respective parliaments. Modi welcomed the formation of the India-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group in the 20th Majlis.

A key outcome of the visit was the announcement of a ₹4,850 crore line of credit to the Maldives. Both countries also expressed their intention to begin negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, covering diverse areas such as fisheries and aquaculture, digital solutions, meteorology, and the recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia by the Maldives. Additionally, an agreement was reached between India's NPCI International Payment Limited (NIPL) and the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) to implement Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives.

PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting capacity building and developmental cooperation in the Maldives. He emphasized that the Maldives holds a special place in India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its vision for the Indian Ocean region. He described the India-Maldives relationship as "centuries-old" and one of "deep affinity," highlighting their roles as neighbors, partners, and friends who stand together in times of need. He also noted that India has always been the "first responder" in times of disaster or pandemic.

President Muizzu echoed these sentiments, calling India the Maldives' "most trusted development partner". He expressed the need to strengthen collaboration across various sectors, including security, trade, healthcare, and education.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives relations, PM Modi and President Muizzu jointly issued a special stamp. Modi highlighted the growing strength of the connections between the two nations, benefiting their people.

Despite recent tensions fueled by the "India Out" campaign and a perceived shift towards China by the current administration, both leaders emphasized the importance of a strong and enduring partnership. Modi's visit and the agreements signed signal a potential reset in relations, with both countries expressing a commitment to deepening their cooperation in the years to come.