Modi Celebrates Maldives Independence Anniversary Amid Growing Ties
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives during a two-day visit, which wrapped up on Saturday. His trip included announcing financial support and initiating discussions for a free trade agreement.
This visit is important for India as it aims to enhance its influence in the Indian Ocean, especially in light of increased competition from China. The trip also indicates a possible improvement in diplomatic relations following the election of the pro-China Maldivian President, Mohamed Muizzu, in 2023.
Modi celebrated the occasion at Republic Square in Malé, where he witnessed a military parade and cultural performances commemorating the Maldives’ liberation from British rule in 1965.
On Friday, after discussions with President Muizzu, Modi disclosed a credit line of $565 million to bolster development projects in the Maldives. The timing of this visit coincided with the anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic relations established in 1965. During the talks, both leaders signed agreements to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including fisheries, health, tourism, and digital development. Additionally, Modi presented the Maldives with heavy vehicles to strengthen its defense capabilities.
The Maldives, an island nation situated strategically in the Indian Ocean, has become a central point in the growing rivalry between India and China. Tensions rose after Muizzu, who has shown a preference for closer ties with China, was elected, defeating the India-supporting incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Muizzu had previously called for the removal of Indian troops stationed in the Maldives.
Concerns also escalated over Modi’s efforts to boost tourism in India’s Lakshadweep islands, which many Maldivians viewed as an attempt to attract tourists away from their country. This led to calls from Indian celebrities for a tourism boycott of the Maldives.
Further complicating matters, Muizzu’s choice to visit China before India raised eyebrows in New Delhi, as it was perceived as a diplomatic slight. Following that visit, Muizzu announced plans to lessen the Maldives’ dependence on India for essential services and imports.
However, relations began to improve after Muizzu attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony last year. Since then, he has softened his position against India, increasing official exchanges between the two nations amid concerns about the Maldives’ economy.
In October, during his visit to India, Muizzu received promises of financial assistance, including $100 million in short-term loans and a $400 million currency swap to help stabilize the Maldivian economy.
India has traditionally been a significant partner in the Maldives’ development. Yet, the Maldives has also been strengthening its ties with China since joining its Belt and Road Initiative in 2013, which focuses on infrastructure and trade expansion — a part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its global reach.
