India, Maldives to hold talks to boost defence ties

Singh said the discussions will add “new vigour” to India-Maldives relations.

“During the talks, both sides reasserted the firm commitment to work closely in realising the joint vision for India-Maldives comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership,” the defence ministry said. The two sides had agreed on this partnership last October.

Singh reaffirmed India’s readiness to support the Maldives to boost its defence preparedness, including through provisioning of defence platforms and assets to augment its capacities, in line with its national priorities, and New Delhi’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy and the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

“Held fruitful talks with Maldives Defence Minister Mr Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi. Several issues pertaining to deepening defence cooperation were discussed which would also help in enhancing the capability of Maldives National Defence Force. Today’s discussions will add new vigour to India-Maldives relations,” Singh wrote on X.