India Proud to Be Maldives’ Most Trusted Friend: PM Modi

Male – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reaffirmed India's strong commitment to its close partnership with the Maldives, calling the island nation an “important” part of India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR vision. Speaking in Male alongside President Mohamed Muizzu, PM Modi said India takes immense pride in being Maldives’ “most trusted friend” and has always responded first in times of crisis.

Addressing the media after bilateral talks, PM Modi congratulated the people of Maldives on the 60th anniversary of their independence and thanked President Muizzu for inviting him as the Guest of Honour at the historic occasion.

“This year marks 60 years of diplomatic ties between India and Maldives, but our relationship goes much deeper — older than history, and as deep as the ocean,” PM Modi said. “The commemorative stamps released today featuring traditional boats from both countries symbolize our shared journey — not just as neighbours, but as co-passengers.”

Highlighting India’s continued support to the Maldives, PM Modi said:
“Whether during natural disasters or the pandemic, India has always stood with Maldives as the first responder — from supplying essentials to supporting the post-COVID economic recovery. For us, it has always been friendship first.”

He also emphasized the growing defence and security cooperation between the two countries, calling it a reflection of “mutual trust.” Referring to the Defence Ministry building inaugurated on Friday, which features a large portrait of him, PM Modi said, “It stands as a concrete symbol of our strong and trusted partnership.”

Major Announcements and Agreements

PM Modi announced a fresh Line of Credit of USD 565 million to support development projects in the Maldives. He said several steps are being taken to boost the bilateral economic partnership:

• 4,000 social housing units, built with Indian support, will soon become homes for many Maldivian families.

• Key infrastructure projects — such as the Greater Male Connectivity Project, Addu Road Development, and the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport — will transform the Maldives into a regional economic and transit hub.

• A new ferry system will ease inter-island travel, redefining distance in terms of “ferry time, not GPS.”

India and Maldives are also working on finalizing a Bilateral Investment Treaty and negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi said both sides aim to move “from paperwork to prosperity.”

He also welcomed growing digital integration between the two nations, citing the UPI system, which is gaining traction in the Maldives, and the local currency settlement system, which will enable direct trade in Indian Rupees and Maldivian Rufiyaa.

Regional and Climate Cooperation

Emphasizing shared strategic priorities, PM Modi stated:
“Peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean are common goals. Through the Colombo Security Conclave, we will strengthen regional maritime security.”

He also called climate change a major concern for both nations and pledged that India would share its renewable energy expertise to help Maldives transition toward greener alternatives.

Ceremonial Welcome and Personal Gestures

Earlier in the day, PM Modi was given a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour at Republic Square in Male. In a special gesture, President Muizzu personally received him at the airport upon arrival from the UK, accompanied by senior Maldivian ministers.

“Landed in Male. Deeply touched by the gesture of President Muizzu to come to the airport to welcome me. I am confident that India-Maldives friendship will scale new heights of progress in the times to come,” PM Modi wrote on X.

PM Modi will participate in the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations on Saturday as the Guest of Honour — his third visit to the country, and the first by any head of state or government since President Muizzu took office in November 2023.

With inputs from IANS