Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Maldives on Friday, signalling a significant shift in India-Maldives relations, which had experienced a period of strain in recent months. His visit was marked by a warm reception from Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and senior members of his cabinet, underscoring Male’s renewed commitment to strengthening ties with New Delhi.

Modi touched down at Velana International Airport in Malé early Friday morning, where he was personally welcomed by President Muizzu -- a gesture the Indian leader described as deeply moving.

“Deeply touched by the gesture of President Muizzu to come to the airport to welcome me. I am confident that India-Maldives friendship will scale new heights of progress in the times to come,” Modi said in a post on social media.

Shortly after his arrival, Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Republic Square, complete with a guard of honour and traditional Maldivian fanfare.

The two leaders held a one-on-one meeting, followed by wide-ranging delegation-level talks, focusing on expanding cooperation in trade, defence, and infrastructure -- areas that have long underpinned the strategic partnership between the two countries.

A diplomatic reset

The visit marks a notable turnaround in bilateral relations since President Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. His rise to power was closely associated with the “India Out” campaign, and he had, immediately after taking office, called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. These personnel had been operating helicopters and an aircraft gifted by India for humanitarian missions and maritime surveillance.

In response, New Delhi facilitated the replacement of its military personnel with civilian technical staff, easing a key point of contention. While early signs from Muizzu’s administration raised concerns about a possible tilt towards China, India’s continued diplomatic engagement and economic support have gradually helped stabilise the relationship.

India’s role in assisting the Maldives with its economic challenges is widely seen as having played a pivotal role in this diplomatic recalibration.

“We've continued to work at it, and I think the result is there for you to see,” India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri remarked earlier this week, highlighting New Delhi’s persistent efforts to mend ties.

The Maldives holds strategic importance for India in the Indian Ocean Region, both in terms of maritime security and geopolitical influence. Bilateral relations had reached new heights under previous Maldivian governments, particularly in areas of defence cooperation, infrastructure development, and disaster relief.

Modi’s visit, seen as part of India’s wider outreach in the Indo-Pacific, aims to reinforce India’s role as a key development partner and security ally in the region --particularly as global powers, including China, compete for influence in South Asia.