India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence ties following key talks between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Maldives Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi.
The discussions focused on injecting new momentum into the bilateral defence relationship, with a particular emphasis on maritime security, information exchange, and enhancing the capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) through focused training initiatives.
The talks centered on deepening cooperation in areas crucial to both nations' security, especially maritime security in the strategically vital Indian Ocean region.
Discussions revolved around strengthening maritime surveillance, intelligence sharing, and increasing interoperability between the armed forces of both countries to address growing regional security challenges.
Enhancing the training capabilities of the MNDF was another key focus area. India, with its well-established defence training infrastructure, has been instrumental in providing training and mentorship to the Maldivian armed forces.
These initiatives aim to equip the MNDF to effectively handle evolving security threats and bolster their self-sufficiency in safeguarding the nation's interests.
As a testament to the growing defence cooperation, India handed over defence equipment worth Rs 35 crore (approximately $4 million) to the Maldives. This aid package, provided at the request of the Maldives, includes essential utility vehicles, berthing equipment, and other items crucial for enhancing the Maldives' defence infrastructure and capabilities.
This gesture underscores India's commitment to supporting its neighbours in building their military capacity, particularly in critical areas like transportation and logistics.
India has been a steadfast partner in providing defence platforms to the Maldives, including the Dornier aircraft and maritime vessels, to strengthen its surveillance and emergency response capabilities.
These platforms have proven crucial for various operations, including maritime surveillance and medical evacuations. Discussions also covered the maintenance and lease extension of these Indian aviation platforms in the Maldives, ensuring their continued operational effectiveness.
This latest development in India-Maldives defence relations highlights the shared commitment to regional security and stability in the Indian Ocean. The enhanced cooperation, including training initiatives and the provision of essential defence equipment, will significantly bolster the Maldives' defence capabilities and contribute to a more secure environment for both nations.
