From ‘India Out’ to ‘Trusted Friend’: PM Modi, Maldives’ Muizzu Reset Ties
Signalling a major reset in bilateral relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday hailed a new era of cooperation, with India reaffirming its role as the island nation’s “most trusted friend.” During PM Modi’s visit to Malé, India announced a substantial ₹4,850 crore ($565 million) line of credit and other key pacts, marking a dramatic shift from Muizzu’s earlier “India Out” campaign stance.
President Muizzu described India as the Maldives’ “closest and most trusted partner,” while PM Modi emphasized that the relationship is “older than history and as deep as the ocean.” This visit appears to have successfully recalibrated ties that had become tense after Muizzu came to power in November 2023.
A key outcome of the visit is a new financial agreement that, according to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, will reduce the Maldives’ annual debt repayment to India by 40%. This, along with the fresh line of credit for infrastructure projects, provides significant economic relief to the archipelago.
Defence and security cooperation was a central theme. The two leaders jointly inaugurated a new defence ministry building in Malé, which PM Modi called a “concrete building of trust.” He reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening the Maldives’ defence capabilities, stating, “Peace, stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region is our common goal.” PM Modi also handed over 72 vehicles and equipment to the Maldives National Defence Force.
The leaders also discussed strengthening economic ties, with PM Modi confirming that a bilateral investment treaty would be finalized soon and that negotiations for a free trade agreement have commenced.
The positive turn was evident in the leaders’ remarks. Muizzu praised PM Modi’s “unwavering commitment to public service” while congratulating him on becoming India’s second-longest-serving Prime Minister for consecutive terms. In turn, Modi asserted that the India-Maldives friendship will always “remain bright and clear” regardless of circumstances.
