President Muizzu appreciates India’s support for Maldives’s economic and social development

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed appreciation for India’s continued support in the economic and social development of the Maldives.

In separate letters sent on Monday to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Muizzu extended warm congratulations on the occasion of India’s 77th Republic Day.

In his letter to President Murmu, he described the 50-year friendship between the Maldives and India as one built on mutual trust and respect.

In his message to Prime Minister Modi, President Muizzu highlighted the development outcomes of the bilateral relationship and praised India’s regional leadership under Modi’s tenure. He reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to strengthening ties and enhancing practical cooperation on matters of mutual interest.

Warmest greetings and best wishes to President HE Smt Droupadi Murmu @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister HE Shri Narendra Modi @narendramodi, the government and the friendly people of India as they celebrate their 77th Republic Day.

This day strongly signifies the commitment of… pic.twitter.com/q84u5OBD5y

— Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) January 26, 2026

The President also conveyed his best wishes for the health and prosperity of the Indian leadership and people.

A message shared via the President’s official X-account echoed these sentiments, noting India’s commitment to freedom, democracy, and good governance, and expressing hope for deeper bilateral relations in the future.

India celebrates Republic Day annually on January 26 to mark its transition to a republic.

President Muizzu’s administration came to power following the ‘India Out’ movement, which called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. At the time, foreign media speculated that bilateral relations might deteriorate. Early in the administration, several deputy ministers made derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Modi and the Indian people.

However, the government has since taken steps to improve ties. President Muizzu has made two official visits to India, and Prime Minister Modi visited the Maldives on Independence Day last year.