Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has expressed strong confidence that the longstanding friendship between Maldives and India will continue to grow, reaching new levels of progress in the near future.

Modi touched down at Velana International Airport (VIA) on Friday morning, responding to an official invitation from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to attend the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations as the guest of honor.

Upon his arrival, Modi took to the social media platform X to share his appreciation, writing that he was deeply moved by President Muizzu’s personal gesture of coming to the airport to welcome him.

As PM Modi begins his third official visit to the Maldives, this trip has drawn noticeably more media attention than his previous visits.

While President Muizzu greeted Modi on arrival, Indian media has highlighted that Muizzu initially rose to power amid a campaign centered on the slogan “India Out.” Despite this, Modi expressed confidence in the strengthening ties between the two nations, noting in his post that he believes the India-Maldives relationship will reach new heights in the days ahead.

In another post, the Indian PM wrote that the Indian diaspora plays a crucial role in furthering friendship between India and the Maldives.

He expressed joy in having interacted with members of the diaspora and expressed gratitude for their warm welcome.

PM Modi received a warm and heartfelt welcome upon his arrival at Velana International Airport.

During this visit, Modi is set to engage in official talks aimed at deepening the longstanding relationship between India and the Maldives. The agenda includes the signing of several memorandums of understanding and agreements, along with the release of a joint statement from both nations, underscoring their commitment to enhanced cooperation.