The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, has concluded his state visit to the Maldives.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in the Maldives on Friday morning at the invitation of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The Prime Minister was warmly received at Velana International Airport (VIA) and subsequently accorded a ceremonial welcome in the capital, Malé.
The state visit centred on strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between India and the Maldives. During official discussions, Prime Minister Modi and President Dr Muizzu engaged in comprehensive talks aimed at enhancing cooperation across various sectors. A series of key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements were exchanged, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to collaborative development initiatives.
Highlights of the visit included a joint virtual inauguration of critical development projects and a symbolic tree-planting ceremony at Sultan Park in Malé, underscoring the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries. Additionally, the Prime Minister gifted two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes to the Maldives, demonstrating India’s dedication to enhancing healthcare collaboration.
Further activities included the inauguration of the Dhoshimeyna Building, which will serve as the new headquarters of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), as well as a state banquet hosted by President Dr Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed in honour of Prime Minister Modi.
Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef also paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister. Before his departure, Prime Minister Modi joined President Dr Muizzu and the First Lady in observing a military parade held in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence.
This is Prime Minister Modi’s first state visit to the Maldives since assuming office for his third term, and coincides with the celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.