Wed Jul 23 13:23:05 UTC 2025: **Headline: India-Maldives Relations Thaw as Modi Set to Visit Amid Reset in Ties**
**Male, Maldives:** Just a year after a diplomatic fallout triggered by disparaging remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and concerns over the Maldives’ growing proximity to China, relations between India and the Maldives appear to be back on track.
PM Modi is scheduled to visit Male on July 25th and 26th, marking the first state visit hosted by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit will include the inauguration of Indian-funded development projects and celebrations for the Maldives’ Independence Day. Crucially, it follows India’s extension of a $50 million Treasury bill, providing vital financial support to the island nation.
Bilateral talks between Modi and Muizzu are expected to address national security concerns in the Indian Ocean Region.
The warming of relations follows months of unease sparked by President Muizzu’s election on an “India out” platform and increased engagement with China. Former Maldivian officials have emphasized India’s historical role as a reliable first responder and the deep-rooted people-to-people connections between the two countries. Former President Mohamed Nasheed went so far as to say that, without India’s help, the Maldives would have defaulted on its debts.
Despite past tensions, India maintained its commitment to the relationship, viewing it as transcending political cycles. The upcoming visit signals a potential return to closer cooperation and a renewed focus on regional stability.
First Piper 