Modi attends Maldives’ Independence Day as Guest of Honour, first Indian Prime Minister to do so

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attended the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives as the Guest of Honour.

This is the first time an Indian Prime Minister has joined the Maldives' Independence Day festivities. Modi is also the first foreign Head of State or Government to be hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu for the occasion.

Accompanied by President Muizzu, Modi witnessed the Independence Day parade at Republic Square. The celebrations featured a colourful march by the Maldivian National Defence Force and other local units, along with cultural performances highlighting the country's achievements as a modern nation.


Extending warm greetings to the government and people of the Maldives, Modi lauded their hospitality and said his participation as Guest of Honour underscored the growing warmth in bilateral ties. The visit comes as India and the Maldives mark 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2025.

Later, Modi met leaders from various Maldivian political parties, noting that their participation reflected bipartisan support for the "strong and time-tested friendship" between the two nations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other senior officials were present.

The Prime Minister also held talks with former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed, assuring him of India's continued support to Male through capacity building and development cooperation. Modi praised Nasheed as a steadfast advocate of deeper friendship between India and the Maldives.