Red carpet welcome for PM Modi in Maldives: Kids chant ‘Vande Mataram’, diaspora meet; joint press address with President Muizzu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Maldives on Thursday night for the second leg of his two-nation visit after concluding his UK tour. He will be in Maldives from July 25–26 at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu and will attend the island nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations as the guest of honour. (Image: X/ Narendra modi)

The Maldivian capital wore a festive look on Friday, adorned with large posters, colourful banners, and fluttering Indian and Maldivian flags. Prior to his Maldives visit, Prime Minister Modi was in the UK, where both nation discussed trade under CETA, Vision 2035. (Image: X/ Narendra modi)

At Malé airport, children in traditional attire performed a vibrant dance and chanted ‘Vande Mataram’ to welcome PM Modi. The Prime Minister smiled throughout the performance, warmly acknowledging the young performers during the grand ceremonial reception. (Image: X/ MEA)

Indian diaspora in Malé gathered in large numbers, waving flags and chanting ‘Modi-Modi’ and ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, as they eagerly awaited the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his two-day state visit. (Image: X/ Narendra modi)

PM Modi will be the guest of honour at the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations, marking 60 years of diplomatic ties. The visit is expected to reset bilateral relations that have seen recent tensions after 'India Out' campaign. (Image: AviatorsMaldive)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Mohamed Muizzu addressed a joint press conference, reaffirming commitment to mutual respect, sovereignty, and regional peace. Key focus: strategic cooperation, defence partnership, and shared prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region. (Image: X/ Narendra modi)

Maldives Former President Mohamed Nasheed praised India’s Neighbourhood First policy and called for a formal trade pact to boost economic ties. He credited India’s timely assistance for helping Maldives avoid default during severe financial stress and mounting debt. (Image: X/ Narendra modi)

Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly inaugurated the Dhoshimeyna Building — Maldives’ new Ministry of Defence HQ in Malé — built with Indian grant aid, marking a key step in strengthening India-Maldives strategic ties. (Image: X/ Narendra modi)

Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly inaugurated the Dhoshimeyna Building — Maldives’ new Ministry of Defence HQ in Malé — built with Indian grant aid, marking a key step in strengthening India-Maldives strategic ties. (Image: X/ ANI)