Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to meet his Maldivian counterpart, Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon, on January 8, 2025, in New Delhi. This meeting aimed to enhance bilateral defence cooperation, focusing on training programs, joint exercises, defence projects, and the supply of defence equipment to strengthen the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The discussions also reviewed ongoing collaborations and explored new avenues for deeper defence partnerships.
This visit is part of a broader effort to revitalize India-Maldives relations after a period of tension following Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s ascent to power. Muizzu, who campaigned on an “India Out” platform, had called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. However, relations have since improved, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to regional security and stability. Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024 laid the foundation for renewed cooperation, and recent talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel reinforced these commitments.
During Khaleel’s visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed for implementing Phase III of High Impact Community Development Projects under Indian grant assistance. This initiative underscores India’s focus on grassroots development in the Maldives, highlighting the shared vision of fostering sustainable regional growth. Khaleel expressed gratitude for India’s role as the Maldives’ “First Responder,” acknowledging India’s emergency financial assistance and continued support.
India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) remain central pillars of India-Maldives relations. Both nations play vital roles in maintaining the safety and security of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), which is crucial for regional stability. The upcoming defence talks between Singh and Maumoon are expected to align with this shared vision and strengthen strategic cooperation.
Additionally, these discussions reflect a growing acknowledgment of mutual security challenges, including terrorism, piracy, and non-traditional threats in the IOR. Defence ties are expected to extend beyond traditional domains, encompassing cybersecurity, defence industries, and knowledge-sharing platforms.
This high-level interaction also follows an increasing trend of diplomatic engagements between the two countries. President Muizzu’s attendance at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration in 2024 and ongoing bilateral meetings signal a steady normalization of ties. These engagements emphasize mutual trust and the importance of dialogue in addressing regional and bilateral concerns.
The Maldives’ strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes it a critical partner for India in ensuring regional maritime security. By enhancing defence collaboration, both countries aim to address common security challenges while reinforcing their shared commitment to peace and stability in the region. Training and capacity-building programs for the MNDF will likely remain a cornerstone of this partnership, ensuring that the Maldives can independently address emerging security threats.
The significance of these talks extends beyond bilateral relations, reflecting India’s broader strategic goals in the Indian Ocean Region. By supporting the Maldives’ defence and development sectors, India aims to counter external influences and ensure that the region remains stable and secure.
In conclusion, the bilateral meeting between Defence Ministers Rajnath Singh and Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon is expected to further cement India-Maldives defence cooperation. Both sides will focus on practical measures to enhance security collaboration, capacity building, and regional stability. With growing alignment in their strategic objectives, this meeting represents a critical milestone in India-Maldives relations and sets the stage for deeper engagement in the years to come.