Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent two-day visit to the Maldives has been hailed as a pivotal moment in South Asian diplomacy, reaffirming India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and signaling a major reset in bilateral ties with Male.

This was the first visit by a foreign head of state since Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu took office, marking a diplomatic breakthrough after a period of strained relations, including Muizzu’s earlier “India Out” campaign. Modi attended the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations as Guest of Honour, underlining India’s role as a trusted friend and regional first responder.

During the visit, both leaders pledged to deepen cooperation on peace, security, and economic growth. A key highlight was India’s announcement of a ₹4,850 crore Line of Credit for infrastructure projects in the Maldives, extended for the first time in Indian Rupees. India also eased Maldives’ debt burden by amending a previous agreement, reducing its annual repayment from $51 million to $29 million.

Modi and Muizzu agreed to begin negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and fast-track a bilateral investment treaty. Several MoUs were signed in areas like fisheries, meteorology, digital infrastructure, and defence.

PM Modi inaugurated housing and infrastructure projects, including 3,300 new homes, roads, and drainage systems. India also committed to providing 72 heavy vehicles to boost Maldivian defence capabilities. A commemorative stamp was released celebrating 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic ties.

This visit reflects India’s expanding regional influence and offers strategic lessons for other South Asian nations like Sri Lanka. Closer ties with India can unlock economic growth, trade, and regional stability.