July 25, 2025 | Male, Maldives : Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Maldives marks a significant diplomatic turnaround between the two nations, signaling a new chapter after months of strained ties. On his arrival in Male on Friday, PM Modi was greeted with full ceremonial honors including a 21-gun salute and a grand welcome at Republic Square, where children performed traditional dances and his image was prominently displayed on the Ministry of Defence building.

This warm reception stands in sharp contrast to the tense start to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s tenure. Elected in late 2023, Muizzu rose to power with an openly critical stance toward India, encapsulated in the now-infamous “India Out” campaign. His administration's initial moves, including asking Indian troops to vacate the Maldives and cozying up to China, triggered diplomatic concern in New Delhi.

Adding fuel to the fire, several Maldivian officials made derogatory comments about India and Prime Minister Modi. These statements ignited a storm of backlash among Indian citizens and celebrities, resulting in a nationwide campaign to boycott Maldives tourism. Indian travelers, traditionally a major source of revenue for the island nation, began canceling trips and instead promoted Indian coastal destinations like Lakshadweep.

But the tide has turned.

In recent months, signs of reconciliation began to emerge. Behind closed doors, diplomatic backchannel talks and strategic nudges from key stakeholders reportedly helped ease tensions. With the broader Indo-Pacific geopolitical landscape demanding greater regional cooperation, Maldives likely recognized the risks of alienating its long-time strategic partner.

PM Modi’s visit comes at this crucial juncture, and the symbolic gestures extended by the Maldivian government underscore an effort to repair and strengthen bilateral relations. During his visit, PM Modi emphasized the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two countries, stating, “Our friendship is as ancient as history and as deep as the Indian Ocean.”

Meetings between the two leaders touched upon regional security, tourism collaboration, and development partnerships. India reaffirmed its commitment to support Maldives’ infrastructure and disaster relief projects, while both sides stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

Analysts view this visit as more than ceremonial. “It’s a strategic reset,” says one regional expert. “The Maldives cannot afford to ignore India’s influence and support, especially given their reliance on tourism and regional security cooperation.”

While challenges remain including lingering public sentiment from the earlier diplomatic fallout, this high-profile visit signals a willingness from both sides to move forward. Whether this marks a permanent shift or a temporary truce will depend on how both nations navigate their shared interests in the coming months.

One thing is certain: from the “India Out” campaign to a red carpet reception, the India-Maldives relationship has come full circle - for now.