Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a state visit to the Maldives, has expressed appreciation for the warm welcome he received and highlighted the vital role of Indian citizens in strengthening bilateral relations.

In a post on X written in Dhivehi shortly after his arrival, PM Modi said he was pleased to be personally welcomed at Velana International Airport by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The message, shared alongside photos of the official reception, noted his arrival in the Maldives and expressed gratitude for the President’s gesture.

Photo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi/X

PM Modi also expressed confidence that Maldives–India relations would continue to grow and reach new heights.

In a separate post, accompanied by images of Indian nationals greeting him, he said he was delighted to meet members of the Indian community in the Maldives. He described their contributions as important to the partnership between the two nations and thanked them for their warm reception.

Photo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi/X

The two-day visit, scheduled for 25–26 July, is PM Modi’s first trip to the Maldives since beginning his third term in office. He has previously visited the country twice during earlier terms.

The visit is considered historically significant, as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence and the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.