India’s diplomatic outreach to the Maldives is set to deepen, with PM Modi’s Maldives visit scheduled for 25th and 26th July. The Prime Minister will attend the island nation’s Independence Day celebrations as the “guest of honour,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed.

Ahead of the visit, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India and the Maldives are in discussions regarding a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). They are also discussing a Bilateral Investment Treaty.

This will be PM Modi’s first visit since President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November 2023 — a time when ties between the two nations had become tense. The visit signals a reset in relations. Both leaders are expected to review the progress under the India-Maldives joint vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. This vision was adopted during Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024.

The MEA added that the visit highlights the importance India places on its maritime neighbour. The visit is under the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.

Background and Strained Ties

Tensions had flared earlier in January 2024 when PM Modi’s social media post showcasing Indian beaches sparked comparisons with the Maldives. The situation escalated after three Maldivian ministers made offensive comments about Modi, calling him a “clown,” “terrorist,” and “puppet of Israel.” The posts were deleted following backlash. However, the incident triggered a #BoycottMaldives movement in India. In 2023, over 209,000 Indian tourists visited the Maldives. They accounted for 11% of the country’s total tourism.

‘India Out’ Campaign

The ‘India Out’ campaign began in 2020 and opposes India’s military presence in the Maldives. Although more visible recently, its roots date back to 2013, during the presidency of Abdulla Yameen. He led a government perceived as pro-China. Protesters say the campaign is peaceful and not anti-India. Yet, it has added to the strain in bilateral ties.

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