Tourism in Maldives to grow after PM Modi’s visit, says President Muizzu

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit will give a fresh boost to tourism in the island nation, calling India a key contributor to the sector.

“India is one of the major countries supporting our tourism. With the Prime Minister’s visit, we expect further growth and stronger people-to-people ties,” Muizzu said as PM Modi concluded his two-day visit to the Maldives.

Muizzu also expressed confidence in finalising a free trade agreement (FTA) with India. “We’ve started the discussions, and I’m very hopeful we’ll conclude them soon,” he said.

Calling India a “crucial partner,” the Maldivian President acknowledged New Delhi’s longstanding support. “We’ve all seen how India has helped Maldives in the past—and there’s no doubt it will continue to play a vital role in our future,” he added.

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When asked about a potential visit to India, Muizzu said he hoped to travel “soon—either this year or in the near future.”

PM Modi’s visit marked a reset in India-Maldives ties, which had strained following Muizzu’s election campaign built around the ‘India Out’ narrative. His visit to attend the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations in Male, where he was the Guest of Honour, was the first by a foreign leader since Muizzu took office.

Ties began to normalise after Muizzu visited India in October last year. During Modi’s visit, the two sides signed several MoUs and officially launched bilateral FTA talks.

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India also extended a ₹4,850 crore Line of Credit to Maldives, and both countries issued a commemorative stamp to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations. President Muizzu called India “Maldives’ closest and most trusted partner.”