President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is set to embark on a state visit to India from 6th to 10th October 2024, following an official invitation extended by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. The visit marks a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between the Maldives and India, with high-level discussions aimed at deepening cooperation between the two nations.
During his visit, President Muizzu is scheduled to meet with President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other senior officials of the Indian government. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening the longstanding ties between the Maldives and India, with both sides keen to explore avenues for enhanced collaboration in areas such as trade, infrastructure, defence, and regional security.
This visit comes after previous engagements between President Muizzu and Indian leaders. Notably, President Muizzu met Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai in December 2023, where they discussed climate change and regional issues. Earlier, President Muizzu attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi and his Council of Ministers in New Delhi in June 2024, further cementing the diplomatic relationship.
India has historically been one of the Maldives’ closest allies, with ties dating back to the Maldives’ independence in 1965. The two countries have enjoyed a multifaceted relationship characterised by cooperation in economic development, maritime security, and cultural exchanges. India has played a crucial role in providing developmental assistance to the Maldives, including support for infrastructure projects, health initiatives, and education programmes.
Recent years have seen a significant boost in Maldives-India relations, with both countries working closely on key issues such as regional security and environmental sustainability. India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy has led to increased engagement with the Maldives, while the Maldives continues to play a vital role in regional security, particularly in the Indian Ocean.
President Muizzu’s visit is expected to further solidify this relationship, highlighting his administration’s commitment to fostering partnerships that contribute to the economic and social development of the Maldives. With India being a key player in the region, the visit signals the importance of maintaining a dynamic and proactive foreign policy that aligns with the Maldives’ national interests.
Accompanied by a high-level delegation from the Maldives, President Muizzu will be accorded full hospitality by the Government of India, as both nations look forward to reinforcing their enduring bond.
As the Maldives continues to navigate its role in the global arena, its relationship with India remains central to its foreign policy, reflecting decades of trust, collaboration, and shared goals in promoting stability and growth in the region.
