PM Modi Joins Maldives' Independence Day Celebrations As Chief Guest
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday graced the Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives as the guest of honour, in yet another signal of a turnaround in bilateral ties after a spell of unease.
PM Modi was warmly welcomed by President Mohamed Muizzu and top ministers in his Cabinet at the iconic Republic Square, the venue of the ceremony at the heart of the Maldivian capital.
The prime minister sat next to President Mohamed Muizzu and watched the over 50-minute event marking the 60th anniversary of the independence of the Maldives.
The ceremony featured a military parade and colourful cultural performances by children and traditional artistes.
It was attended by top political and military brass of the Maldives.
Several members of the prime minister's delegation including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri attended the event.
The prime minister landed in Male on Friday on a two-day visit primarily to attend the Independence Day celebrations of the Indian Ocean archipelago.
PM Modi's visit to the Maldives is seen as a major turnaround in the bilateral ties after a spell of strain and tension. The renewed intensity in the relations assumes significance as President Mohamed Muizzu came to power in November 2023 on the back of an "India Out" campaign.
Following his talks with President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday, the prime minister said India is proud to be the "most trusted" friend of the Maldives and that the friendship will always "remain bright and clear".
In reflection of renewed intensity in the relations, PM Modi, after his talks with President Mohamed Muizzu, announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit for the island nation and said both sides have launched negotiations for a free trade deal.
New Delhi also decided to reduce the Maldives' annual debt repayment obligations by 40 per cent (from USD 51 million to 29 million), seen as a significant move to help the country deal with its economic woes.
On Saturday, PM Modi also interacted with the Indian community in the Maldives and appreciated their contributions in building upon the strong and vibrant people-to-people ties between the two countries.
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