Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit Opens New Prospects for Maldives’ Tourism Sector – President Mohamed Muizzu

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit Opens New Prospects for Maldives’ Tourism Sector – President Mohamed Muizzu

[Malé, July 27, 2025] — Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit has opened new opportunities for the island nation’s tourism industry and strengthened bilateral ties between the two countries. President Muizzu expressed hope that a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India could be finalized in the near future.

“India is one of our key partners in the tourism sector. This visit by the Prime Minister will deepen ties between the people of our two nations and will boost tourism growth,” said Muizzu.

He noted that discussions on a Free Trade Agreement between Maldives and India have already begun and expressed confidence that the initiative will be concluded swiftly. “We all know how India has supported Maldives in the past, and I believe India will continue to play an important role in the future,” the President added.

When asked about his own visit to India, Muizzu responded that he is interested in making a trip “this year or in the near future.”

Prime Minister Modi’s visit is being seen as the beginning of a new chapter in India-Maldives relations. Of special note is the fact that President Muizzu’s election campaign had previously featured the “India Out” slogan, which had caused some diplomatic strain. However, Modi’s recent trip — his first visit to Maldives since President Muizzu took office — is believed to have thawed tensions. Modi attended the celebrations as the chief guest on the occasion of Maldives’ 60th Independence Day.

Relations between the two countries began to normalize after President Muizzu’s visit to India last October. During this latest visit, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to strengthen bilateral cooperation, and formal discussions began on the proposed Free Trade Agreement.

India also extended a line of credit worth ₹4,850 crore to the Maldives and released a commemorative postage stamp to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations. President Muizzu described India as “Maldives’ closest and most reliable partner.”

Diplomatic observers believe the visit has given fresh momentum to the India-Maldives relationship.