Is PM Modi Set to Inaugurate Major Projects During His Maldives Visit?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi will inaugurate multiple projects during his visit.
- This visit is significant for 60 years of Maldives independence.
- India and Maldives share a rich history and close ties.
- High-level discussions will focus on bilateral cooperation.
- India's support during crises has strengthened relations.
Male, July 20 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate numerous developmental initiatives during his two-day trip to the Maldives, commencing on July 25.
President Muizzu and Prime Minister Modi will engage in high-level talks addressing significant bilateral and regional matters. Following their discussions, several joint projects will be inaugurated, along with the signing of multiple MoUs aimed at enhancing cooperation in various sectors of shared interest, as stated in a press release from the Maldives President’s Office on Sunday.
This state visit represents PM Modi’s inaugural trip to the Maldives since beginning his third term in office.
India and the Maldives boast rich ethnic, linguistic, cultural, religious, and commercial ties that date back centuries.
The relationship between the two nations has been characterized as close, cordial, and multi-faceted.
India was among the first nations to recognize the Maldives following its independence in 1965 and establish diplomatic relations with the country.
There are no politically contentious issues affecting India’s relationship with the Maldives.
The previous claim by the Maldives to Minicoy Island was amicably resolved through the Maritime Boundary Treaty of 1976, wherein the Maldives acknowledged Minicoy as an integral part of India.
India’s timely support during the 1988 coup attempt solidified trust and fostered long-term friendly relations with the Maldives. The swift withdrawal of Indian troops, once their presence was no longer necessary, alleviated concerns about Indian dominance or territorial ambitions.
India was also the first to offer assistance to the Maldives during the 2004 Tsunami and the water crisis in Male in December 2014. These pivotal events have underscored the advantages of India’s proximity and capability to assist the Maldives in times of distress, which is widely recognized by both the Maldives’ government and its populace.
Furthermore, this visit by the Indian Prime Minister holds significant importance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India, according to an official press release.