India and the Maldives strengthened their bilateral ties on Friday with the exchange of several agreements after delegation-level talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
The talks took place in Male, the Maldivian capital, where Prime Minister Modi was accorded a warm and vibrant welcome. Upon his arrival, Modi was greeted with a Guard of Honour at Republic Square and a 21-gun salute. President Muizzu personally received the Prime Minister at Velana International Airport, underscoring the significance of the visit. Maldivian children showcased cultural programs, including a Chhau dance performance by Indian children, highlighting the cultural ties between the two nations.
This visit marks Prime Minister Modi’s third to the Maldives and is the first by a Head of State since Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed the presidency. In his press statement following the talks, Modi extended his congratulations to the President and the people of the Maldives on the historic occasion of their 60th independence anniversary.
During the visit, Modi engaged with Maldivian delegates, while President Muizzu held discussions with key Indian officials including External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Later, the Prime Minister signed the visitor book at the President’s House.
The Indian diaspora in the Maldives turned out in large numbers to welcome Prime Minister Modi, reflecting the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries. The Prime Minister expressed his optimism that the India-Maldives friendship will continue to grow and reach new heights in the years to come.