Maldives President Muizzu Hails India As ‘Most Trusted Ally’ During PM Modi’s Visit

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday described India as the country's "closest and most trusted ally," marking a significant shift from the earlier 'India Out' campaign rhetoric. His remarks came during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Presidential Office in Malé, as Modi arrived in the island nation for a two-day state visit.

President Muizzu praised India for its consistent role as the first responder in times of crisis for the Maldives. "India has long stood as the Maldives's closest and most trusted partner. Our collaboration spans a wide range of areas, from security and trade to healthcare, education and beyond, touching the everyday lives of our citizens," he stated.

During the meeting, both leaders reviewed the progress made under the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership'. President Muizzu and PM Modi discussed further cooperation in various sectors including infrastructure development, climate action, capacity building, health, and trade.

PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to support the Maldives in line with its 'Neighbourhood First' and Vision MAHASAGAR policies, aimed at ensuring peace, progress, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.

On defence and maritime cooperation, the two sides emphasized the need to further enhance joint efforts, particularly under the framework of the Colombo Security Conclave.

Economic partnership was another key focus of the talks. PM Modi stressed that the proposed Free Trade Agreement and Bilateral Investment Treaty would pave the way for new opportunities. He also welcomed developments related to digital payments and financial integration, including the adoption of India's UPI system, the acceptance of RuPay cards, and the agreement to conduct trade in local currencies.

As part of their joint commitment to the Global South, both countries reiterated their cooperation on critical global challenges like climate change, renewable energy, disaster risk reduction, and advanced weather science.

Prime Minister Modi also thanked President Muizzu for strongly condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and for expressing solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism.

During the visit, India and the Maldives signed six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering key sectors such as fisheries and aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian pharmacopoeia, and a concessional Line of Credit.

India extended a new Line of Credit worth ₹4,850 crore (approximately $550 million) to support infrastructure and development projects in the Maldives. Additionally, an Amendatory Agreement to the existing Lines of Credit was exchanged, reducing the Maldives' annual debt repayment from $51 million to $29 million - a 40% cut in debt obligations.

The two leaders also exchanged the Terms of Reference for the proposed Free Trade Agreement.

In a major push for development, PM Modi and President Muizzu virtually inaugurated a roads and drainage project in Addu City, along with six High Impact Community Development Projects across different locations.

PM Modi handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles for the Maldives National Defence Force and Immigration authorities. Furthermore, two Aarogya Maitri Health Cube (BHISHM) sets were gifted to the Maldivian government. Each cube is equipped with advanced medical supplies and can treat up to 200 casualties, while supporting a six-member medical team for 72 hours.

The visit marked a significant consolidation of India-Maldives ties, with both countries reiterating their shared vision for regional security, development, and cooperation.