How Will PM Modi's Maldives Visit Enhance Development Partnerships?

Male, July 24 (NationPress) Emphasizing India's significant role in the development of the Maldives, India's High Commissioner to the island nation, G Balasubramanian, stated on Thursday that several pivotal agreements are anticipated to be formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming two-day State Visit to Maldives, commencing Friday.

"This visit is crucial for enhancing the bilateral ties between our nations. It marks the Prime Minister's third trip to the Maldives—his initial visits occurred in 2018 and 2019. This is also the inaugural visit by a head of state under President Mohammad Muizzu’s administration. Additionally, it is the first instance since 2017 that the Maldives has invited a guest of honor for the Independence Day festivities," Balasubramanian shared in an exclusive interview with IANS.

PM Modi is set to visit the Maldives from July 25–26, following an invitation from President Mohamed Muizzu. This will be his third official visit to the Maldives, with prior trips in 2018 and 2019. Besides meetings with Muizzu, PM Modi will serve as the 'Guest of Honor' at the celebrations for the 60th anniversary of Maldives' Independence on July 26.

President Muizzu previously traveled to India on a State Visit in October 2024 and attended the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected government. Both leaders also engaged during the COP meeting in Dubai.

Balasubramanian noted that the 60th anniversary of Maldives' Independence coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives. "India was among the first nations to recognize Maldives' independence in 1965. Since then, we have maintained a warm and cooperative diplomatic relationship. To celebrate this significant milestone, our Prime Minister and the Maldives' President will unveil a commemorative stamp, marking this occasion as another important chapter in our partnership."

PM Modi's arrival in the Maldives on July 25 will be the second leg of his two-nation tour, which includes a prior visit to the UK. High Commissioner Balasubramanian indicated that during his stay, PM Modi will hand over around 4,000 housing units constructed under buyer's credit.

Detailing PM Modi's itinerary in the Maldives, he mentioned, "After participating in the Independence Day celebration on July 26, he will engage in bilateral discussions with President Muizzu. Other significant events will include inaugurating several projects, signing MOUs, and exchanging agreements. The schedule for our Prime Minister is quite packed. Both leaders will review the progress made on the vision document established last year during President Muizzu's State Visit to India in October 2024, focusing on economic and maritime security partnerships."

Balasubramanian also mentioned that PM Modi has planned some private engagements alongside official meetings. He is expected to interact with the Indian diaspora, meet candidates from the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program trained in India, and connect with participants of the 'Bharat ko Janiye' quiz.

When discussing India's involvement in Maldives' development, he stated, "India has been a primary development partner for the Maldives. Since 2014, our support has encompassed infrastructure development, capacity building, and emergency financial assistance, including currency swaps. The total financial aid since 2014 exceeds $3 billion. Many of the initiatives undertaken are impactful community development projects funded through Indian government grants, alongside various lines of credit projects.

For instance, PM Modi will be handing over approximately 4,000 housing complexes built under buyer's credit. Other High-Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) have a direct community impact in the Maldives, with over 78 projects executed. Some of these will be officially handed over by the Prime Minister, reflecting the ongoing collaboration between our two nations. Under the Line of Credit, projects in Addu and other regions are also set for handover," he added.

With PM Modi poised to inaugurate several infrastructure projects and announce new initiatives, this visit underscores the significance India places on its maritime neighbor, the Maldives, which continues to occupy a vital position in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.