Indian Diaspora in Maldives Hails PM Modi’s Visit as a Historic Milestone

Expatriates Celebrate Strengthening Ties, Laud India’s Development Role in the Island Nation

Delhi/Malé, – Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives has generated immense excitement among the Indian diaspora living in the island nation. Describing the occasion as “historic,” Indian expatriates have expressed deep appreciation and pride, calling the visit a significant step in furthering the strategic and cultural partnership between India and the Maldives.

Virbhadra, a doctor and surgeon residing in Malé for over a decade, called the Prime Minister’s visit a rare and cherished opportunity. “The Maldives has changed a lot in the last ten years. It’s much more comfortable to live here now. We are eagerly waiting to meet Prime Minister Modi and his team,” he said. Describing PM Modi as a visionary and globally respected leader, he added, “Meeting him is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Virbhadra also lauded the current state of India-Maldives relations, noting that while there had been challenges in the past, the trajectory now is clearly positive. “Today, Maldives is a true friend of India. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, I am confident our relations will deepen. He has the intelligence and diplomatic experience to build lasting partnerships.”

Sudarshan Shetty, another enthusiastic member of the diaspora, echoed similar sentiments. “This visit is extraordinary for us. My family and I feel privileged to witness it. The historic bond between India and the Maldives goes back decades, and this visit will certainly enhance trade, investment, and cultural exchange,” he said.

Sudarshan commended the Indian government for playing a crucial role in the Maldives’ development. “The infrastructure and economic projects being implemented with India’s help have brought real change. The support of a friendly country like India is a matter of pride for all of us,” he said, citing improvements in roads, healthcare, and housing supported by Indian aid and investment.

Sandeep, a young Indian migrant, described his emotional preparation to see PM Modi for the first time. “I wore my traditional attire and got ready from 5 a.m. today. This is a moment I will never forget,” he shared. “What hasn’t been achieved in 70 years, PM Modi has delivered in a few. He has truly transformed India’s role in the region.”

The atmosphere on the streets of Malé was filled with patriotic fervor as members of the Indian community waved flags and held posters of PM Modi. Slogans of ‘Modi Zindabad’ and ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ echoed through the crowd, reflecting the widespread admiration among Indians abroad.

Expatriates believe this visit marks a turning point in bilateral ties. With India’s ongoing support for infrastructure, education, and health sectors in the Maldives, they are hopeful that this visit will further energize economic cooperation and open up new avenues of partnership between the two nations.

For many Indians in the Maldives, this visit is not just a diplomatic event but a celebration of shared history, cultural bonds, and a promising future.