Thu Jul 24 08:34:24 UTC 2025: ## Summary:
This article from *The Hindu*, published July 24, 2025, details Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Male, Maldives, for the country’s 60th Independence Day celebration. This visit marks a significant improvement in relations between India and the Maldives after a period of strained ties. The relationship had initially improved following President Mohamed Muizzu’s election in 2023, with agreements to strengthen economic and people-to-people ties. However, derogatory remarks by Maldivian officials and a social media-fueled boycott campaign caused a downturn. President Muizzu insisted on the removal of Indian military personnel, which was completed in May 2024, albeit replaced with technical personnel. Subsequently, relations improved, culminating in a currency swap agreement and a “vision statement” for a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership. Modi’s visit will solidify this renewed partnership, with new agreements expected in renewable energy, fisheries, and digital infrastructure, and progress on a Free Trade Agreement.
## News Article:
**India-Maldives Relations Thaw: PM Modi to Attend Independence Day Celebration**
**Male, Maldives – July 24, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebration in Male on July 26, signaling a significant warming of relations between India and the island nation, *The Hindu* reports.
The visit follows a period of fluctuating ties marked by initial promises of strengthened economic cooperation and a subsequent downturn triggered by derogatory remarks from Maldivian officials and a social media boycott campaign in India. President Mohamed Muizzu’s demand for the removal of Indian military personnel, completed in May 2024, initially strained the relationship.
However, diplomatic efforts have paved the way for a renewed partnership. A crucial currency swap agreement for $750 million and a “vision statement” for a “comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership” signed in October 2024 laid the groundwork for stronger ties.
“It’s a question of working hard at a relationship,” said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, highlighting the focused attention given to India-Maldives ties.
During his visit, PM Modi is expected to finalize new agreements in areas such as renewable energy, fisheries, and digital infrastructure. Discussions on the terms of reference for a Free Trade Agreement are also anticipated.
“We have continued to work at it …we have also been in very close discussions with our partners in the Maldives to provide clarity and assurances about what it is that we want to do bilaterally, and I think the result is there for all to see,” Misri added.
The visit marks the first Head of State visit to the Maldives since President Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. Indian flags have been put up across Male in preparation for the PM’s arrival. The event is expected to further solidify the growing partnership between the two nations.
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