Malé, Maldives — The High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, G. Balasubramanian, paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Defence and National Service on Tuesday, with discussions focused on further strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.
According to officials, the meeting highlighted the close and longstanding partnership between the Maldives and India, particularly in the defence and security sector. Both sides exchanged views on enhancing collaboration in key areas such as maritime security, capacity building, joint training, and technical cooperation, while reaffirming their shared commitment to regional stability in the Indian Ocean.
The Defence Minister expressed appreciation for India’s continued support towards strengthening the Maldives’ defence capabilities, noting that such cooperation has played a crucial role in improving the operational readiness and institutional development of the Maldives National Defence Force. The Minister further acknowledged India’s consistent role as a reliable partner in times of need, particularly in areas related to security assistance and capacity enhancement.
India has remained one of the Maldives’ closest partners in the defence sector, with cooperation spanning several decades. The bilateral relationship has evolved through regular high-level engagements, joint exercises, and structured defence collaboration under the India-Maldives Defence Cooperation framework. This cooperation has been instrumental in supporting the Maldives in addressing emerging security challenges, especially those linked to maritime safety, illegal fishing, trafficking, and disaster response.
As part of its assistance, India has provided a range of defence assets and infrastructure support to the Maldives. Over the years, India has gifted military vessels, patrol boats, helicopters, and other essential equipment to enhance the country’s surveillance and response capabilities across its extensive maritime zone. These assets have been widely utilised in search-and-rescue operations, medical evacuations, and monitoring activities, significantly strengthening the Maldives’ ability to safeguard its territorial waters.
In addition to hardware support, India has consistently contributed to human resource development within the MNDF. A large number of Maldivian defence personnel have received training in Indian military institutions, covering areas such as naval operations, aviation, engineering, and leadership development. Technical assistance and advisory support have also been extended in maintaining and operating defence systems provided to the Maldives.
India’s assistance has further extended to infrastructure development within the defence sector, including support for coastal surveillance systems and facilities aimed at improving maritime domain awareness. These initiatives have enabled closer coordination between the two countries in ensuring security across shared waters and responding to regional challenges.
Defence cooperation between the Maldives and India has also been evident during emergencies, where India has provided timely assistance, including humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations. Such engagements have reinforced trust and demonstrated the depth of the bilateral partnership.
The latest meeting is seen as part of ongoing efforts by both countries to deepen strategic ties and maintain regular dialogue on defence and security matters. Officials noted that continued collaboration will remain key to ensuring peace, stability, and sustainable security in the Indian Ocean region, while further strengthening the close and friendly relations between Malé and New Delhi.
