Malé, Maldives — India and its diplomatic mission in Malé carried out a series of public engagements in January 2026, spanning technology dialogue, maritime cooperation and cultural diplomacy.
The month opened with a curtain-raiser in Malé on 13 January hosted by the High Commission of India ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, aimed at linking Maldivian stakeholders with discussions on responsible and development-oriented artificial intelligence. Local officials and representatives from the technology sector took part in the engagement, which was also covered by Maldivian media.
On the security and cooperation front, Maldives hosted the 17th edition of Exercise Dosti from 16–19 January, a trilateral maritime engagement that included joint sea-based training such as search and rescue drills, maritime security exercises and pollution-response activities. Maldivian authorities issued public advisories during the period due to heightened operational activity in designated areas.
Cultural exchanges also featured prominently. The Indian Cultural Centre’s January programme included a cultural confluence event at Olympus Theatre on 27 January, followed by a musical workshop on 29 January as part of its outreach and people-to-people engagement efforts.
India’s 77th Republic Day was marked in Malé on 26 January with a formal reception attended by senior officials and members of the diplomatic community, with cultural performances and an exhibition highlighting bilateral relations.
In addition, Maldivian band 2ofus was selected through the Indian Cultural Centre framework to represent the Maldives at an India-based cultural festival tour running 17–26 January, underscoring ongoing cultural linkages between the two countries.
January’s engagements reflected a mix of strategic cooperation and public diplomacy, with India’s mission placing emphasis on emerging technology collaboration, regional maritime preparedness and cultural exchange. (Source: News syndicate)
