In a rare diplomatic gesture, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu broke protocol to personally receive Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Malé’s Velana International Airport. This warm welcome marks PM Modi’s first visit under President Muizzu’s tenure and underscores the strengthening ties between India and the Maldives. Modi is in Malé as the Guest of Honour for the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations.