Modi to visit Maldives on Independence Day at Muizzu's invitation
Khaleel recently visited India to participate in high-level consultations between the two neighboring countries
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) and Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu (L)
The Times of India has reported that India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Maldives for the special ceremony on Maldives Independence Day.
According to the newspaper, the invitation to participate in the Independence Day ceremony was extended to Prime Minister Modi by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu through Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel.
Foreign Minister Khaleel recently visited India to participate in high-level consultations between the two neighboring countries.
The newspaper stated that there are not many details available at the moment regarding the agenda and program of Prime Minister Modi's visit. However, it mentioned that the expected date for Modi's visit to the Maldives is July 26, which is the Maldives' Independence Day.
If so, this would be Modi's first visit to the Maldives since Muizzu took the oath of office in November 2023. Earlier, Muizzu visited India twice; once to attend the swearing-in ceremony for Modi's new term as Prime Minister, and later for an official state visit.
FM Khaleel's recent trip to India marked his third visit to the country this year. During the meetings with senior Indian government officials, discussions were held on further strengthening the brotherly ties between the Maldives and India. They also held discussions regarding additional areas of cooperation between the two countries.
The Muizzu administration came to power after conducting a strong campaign against India. The ‘India Out’ campaign, led by those now in government including Muizzu and other ministers while in opposition, even featured caricatures mocking India’s PM at their gatherings.
Following Muizzu’s rise to power, relations between the Maldives and India soured significantly. Tensions escalated after several of Muizzu’s political appointees publicly mocked the Indian Prime Minister, while Muizzu himself launched verbal attacks directed at India as well.
However, relations have since improved, with Muizzu and his government actively working to strengthen ties with India. The administration is now seeking financial assistance and other forms of support to address the Maldives’ needs.
