Modi highlights Nasheed’s role in boosting Maldives-India ties

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his official visit to the Maldives from Friday to Saturday, stated that former President Mohamed Nasheed has been a consistent advocate of strong ties between India and the Maldives.

Following a meeting with Nasheed, Modi posted on X: “I have met [former President] Nasheed. Mohamed Nasheed has always been a strong advocate of friendship between India and the Maldives,” the post said in Dhivehi.

According to Modi, the two leaders discussed India’s "neighbourhood-first" foreign policy and the Maldives’ continued role as a “valuable pillar” of India’s maritime vision. He further noted that India will continue to support the Maldives through capacity building and development cooperation.

After the meeting, Nasheed also made a post on X, describing the meeting with Modi as an “honour.” Nasheed said discussions focused on youth development in the Maldives and supporting the country’s film industry. Environmental matters were also among the topics covered.

Nasheed maintained strong relations with India during his presidency from 2008 to 2012. During his term, key infrastructure projects were awarded to Indian firms, including the leasing of Velana International Airport to GMR for 25 years.

As an opposition leader, Nasheed expressed concerns over the volume of loans taken from China during President Abdulla Yameen’s administration. He also opposed the "India Out" campaign led by the opposition during the last government of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).