Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives as the Guest of Honour on Saturday at Republic Square in Male. The event, hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, included a ceremonial gun salute, national anthem, and cultural performances by children.

PM Modi’s visit marks his third to the island nation and the first by a foreign Head of State during President Muizzu’s tenure. Earlier in the day, PM Modi met leaders from multiple Maldivian political parties, underscoring the bipartisan support for the enduring India-Maldives partnership. He was accompanied by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and NSA Ajit Doval.

During his visit, PM Modi met former President Mohamed Nasheed and reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives through developmental aid and capacity building. He also met Speaker of the People’s Majlis, Abdul Raheem Abdulla, and hailed the formation of the India-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group.

In talks with Vice President Mohamed Latheef, both leaders discussed collaboration in infrastructure, climate change, energy, and technology. PM Modi emphasized the importance of continuing this cooperation for mutual benefit.

On Friday, PM Modi and President Muizzu signed several bilateral agreements, launched key infrastructure projects, and unveiled commemorative stamps marking 60 years of diplomatic ties. PM Modi also handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles to the Maldives National Defence Force and Immigration Department.

At a state banquet in his honour, PM Modi expressed gratitude for being invited as the Guest of Honour and reaffirmed India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy and the vision for a secure and prosperous Indian Ocean region.