Daijiworld Media Network- Male

Male, Jul 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Velana International Airport in Male on Friday for a two-day official visit to the Maldives. He was received by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu with traditional performances and chants of “Vande Mataram”.

PM Modi is visiting the Maldives at the invitation of President Muizzu to attend the island nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour. This is Modi’s third visit to the Maldives and the first by any head of state during Muizzu’s presidency.

During the visit, both leaders will review the progress of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. They will also hold talks on strengthening bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, defence, and economic connectivity.

India and the Maldives share historic ties dating back to 1965, when India was among the first countries to recognise Maldivian independence. Modi’s visit comes at a time when the two nations mark 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Relations between the two countries had strained during Muizzu’s 2023 presidential campaign, which included the “India Out” movement. However, ties began to improve after Modi and Muizzu met at the UN COP28 summit in Dubai in December 2023.