Rajnath Singh Discusses India-Maldives Defence Cooperation with Counterpart Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Maldivian Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi on Wednesday to strengthen bilateral defence and security ties. During the discussions, both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, emphasizing cooperation to enhance regional stability. Singh assured the Maldives of India’s continued support in capacity-building efforts, including the provision of defence platforms, assets, and training, in line with India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy and the vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region).

Singh highlighted India’s readiness to assist the Maldives in bolstering its defence preparedness, assuring that the country would continue to support the Maldives National Defence Force through various projects and equipment. The Maldivian minister expressed gratitude for India’s role as the “First Responder” and thanked New Delhi for its help in developing modern infrastructure and enhancing the training of defence and security personnel.

The meeting between the two ministers follows recent discussions between Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, underscoring the strong diplomatic relationship between the two nations. Despite recent tensions following the election of President Mohamed Muizzu, who had previously called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, both sides appear committed to strengthening bilateral ties.

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