India and Maldives Mark 60 Years of Diplomatic Ties with Release of Commemorative Stamps.

International

On 25 July 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly released commemorative postage stamps during Modi’s state visit to MalĂ©. The stamps were unveiled to commemorate the 60th anniversary of India‑Maldives diplomatic relations, symbolizing the enduring friendship and maritime heritage that bind the two nations.


      - The commemorative stamps feature two traditional maritime vessels: the Indian Uru, a large wooden dhow built in Kerala’s historic Beypore boatyards, and the Maldivian Vadhu Dhoni, used for reef and coastal fishing. These vessels represent centuries-old Indian Ocean trade and cultural linkages between the two nations.

      - India was among the first countries to formally establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives in 1965, following the island nation’s independence. The stamp-release ceremony reaffirms this longstanding partnership that has continued through political changes and regional turbulence.

     

Main Point :-   (i) The event was part of a broader two-day state visit (25–26 July 2025) by Prime Minister Modi, during which both leaders witnessed the signing of eight key agreements including a â‚č4,850 crore Line of Credit (LoC), cooperation in fisheries, digital payments via UPI, and frameworks initiating a Free Trade Agreement.

      (ii)Narender Modi and Muizzu also inaugurated the new Ministry of Defence headquarters, financed by India, and attended ceremonies including youth-led performances, diaspora gatherings, and symbolic planting of mango saplings under India’s “Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam” and Maldives’ five million tree pledge.

(iii) President Muizzu praised India-Maldives relations as “resilient and deep-rooted,” and Modi reaffirmed Maldives’ special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and Vision MAHASAGAR policies. The stamp release was described as a cultural gesture connected to shared maritime heritage and mutual trust.
About Maldives

President: Mohamed Muizzu
Capital: Malé
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