Brief by Shorts91 NewsDesk / 08:00pm on 26 Jul 2025,Saturday India Global
In a striking diplomatic shift, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu declared India as his country’s “closest partner” during PM Modi’s state visit to Malé. The announcement follows a ₹5,000 crore credit line from India, earmarked for hospitals, housing, schools, and infrastructure. Both nations agreed to begin negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expected to benefit traders on both sides. Muizzu’s praise marks a turnaround from his earlier “India Out” stance and controversial ministerial remarks in 2024. The visit, preceded by trips to Turkey and China, signals a recalibration of Maldives’ foreign policy, with India reaffirming its role as a first responder and development ally.
