What happened?
On 25 July 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Maldives to attend its 60th Independence Day celebrations. He was warmly received by President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit marks 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic ties and follows Modi’s UK trip where the India-UK FTA was signed.
Why it matters to India
The visit reflects India’s continued commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Amid growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean, Modi’s presence signals strategic reassurance to Male and reaffirms India’s role as a regional partner. Cultural outreach, such as Modi’s interaction with diaspora children, also strengthens people-to-people ties and diplomatic goodwill.