5th India-Maldives Defence Cooperation Dialogue Held in New Delhi

The 5th Defence Cooperation Dialogue between India and the Maldives was held in New Delhi on September 6, 2024. The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, while the Maldivian delegation was headed by General Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force, Maldives National Defence Force. The meeting provided a platform to advance bilateral defence cooperation, focusing on the implementation of ongoing projects and fostering stability in the Indian Ocean region.

Key Points of Discussion

Ongoing Defence Projects: Both sides emphasized expediting ongoing defence cooperation initiatives.

High-Level Exchanges: Deliberations were held on enhancing high-level defence exchanges.

Capability Development: Focus was placed on collaborative capability development projects.

Military Exercises: Participation in future bilateral military exercises was discussed.

Outcomes

The talks were productive, aimed at strengthening shared strategic interests and contributing to peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.

India-Maldives Defence Cooperation: Key Points

Strategic Partnership: India and the Maldives share a strong defence partnership, focusing on the security of the Indian Ocean region.

High-Level Exchanges: Regular high-level defence dialogues and visits between military officials.

Defence Assistance: India provides defence training, equipment, and infrastructure support to the Maldives.

Joint Military Exercises: Bilateral military exercises such as “Ekuverin” strengthen joint operational capabilities.

Security of Indian Ocean: Both nations collaborate to ensure maritime security, counter-terrorism, and anti-piracy efforts in the region.

Capacity Building: India supports the Maldives in developing its naval and coast guard capabilities.